County Watch

Region: Southeastern Wisconsin

  • Milwaukee County
  • Waukesha County
  • Racine County
  • Kenosha County
  • Ozaukee County
  • Washington County
  • Walworth County

Region: Northeastern Wisconsin

  • Brown County
  • Outagamie County
  • Winnebago County
  • Calumet County
  • Manitowoc County
  • Sheboygan County
  • Door County
  • Kewaunee County

Region: Central Wisconsin

  • Dane County
  • Columbia County
  • Dodge County
  • Fond du Lac County
  • Green Lake County
  • Marquette County
  • Adams County
  • Juneau County

Region: Western Wisconsin

  • La Crosse County
  • Monroe County
  • Vernon County
  • Jackson County
  • Trempealeau County
  • Buffalo County
  • Eau Claire County
  • Chippewa County
  • Dunn County

Region: Northwestern Wisconsin

  • Douglas County
  • Bayfield County
  • Ashland County
  • Iron County
  • Sawyer County
  • Price County
  • Rusk County
  • Polk County
  • Barron County
  • Washburn County
  • Burnett County

Region: North-Central Wisconsin

  • Marathon County
  • Wood County
  • Portage County
  • Waupaca County
  • Shawano County
  • Oconto County
  • Florence County
  • Forest County
  • Langlade County
  • Lincoln County
  • Oneida County
  • Vilas County

Region: Southwestern Wisconsin

  • Rock County
  • Green County
  • Lafayette County
  • Iowa County
  • Grant County
  • Crawford County
  • Richland County
  • Sauk County

Minnesota Hotels Cancel ICE Bookings Amid Safety Concerns as Tensions Rise

Multiple downtown St. Paul hotels canceled reservations and temporarily closed due to heightened public safety concerns amid increasing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement. ICE agents were redirected to other accommodations after threats were reported against hotel staff. This incident highlights the challenges faced by private businesses in politically charged environments.

Ohio GOP Pushes Child-Care Camera Mandate, Exposing Divide Over Fraud Oversight

Ohio Republican lawmakers propose a bill requiring video cameras in publicly funded child-care centers to enhance oversight and prevent fraud. Supporters argue it increases transparency, while critics raise privacy and cost concerns. The debate reflects a national divide within the GOP regarding the balance between accountability and surveillance in public funding.

Illinois’ ‘Clean Slate’ Law Raises Familiar Questions About Accountability, Transparency, and Public Safety

Illinois has passed the Clean Slate bill, which allows automatic sealing of certain nonviolent criminal records, aiming to enhance employment and housing access. Critics question the absence of judicial review, arguing it could undermine public trust and safety, as nonviolent offenses may still pose risks. The long-term effects of this reform remain uncertain.

VIGO COUNTY LOOKS TO OPIOID FUNDS TO SUPPORT FAMILY COURT COUNSELING PROGRAM

Vigo County officials are debating using opioid settlement funds for trauma counseling linked to family court cases, aimed at addressing issues arising from high-conflict divorces. Judge Reddy argues that early intervention can prevent future substance abuse and mental health crises. However, there are concerns about expanding spending beyond addiction treatment focus.

Indiana Lawmakers Revisit the “Gabby Petito Act”: A Public Safety Tool Worth Getting Right

As the 2026 legislative session begins, Indiana lawmakers revisit domestic violence response strategies. Rep. Maureen Bauer’s reintroduced “Gabby Petito Act” mandates lethality assessments by police on domestic disturbance calls to enhance victim safety and officer awareness. The bill aims for better intervention without imposing rigid mandates on law enforcement.

Who Is Running for Governor of Wisconsin in 2026?

The 2026 Wisconsin gubernatorial election is set for November 3, following a crowded primary on August 11. With incumbent Tony Evers not running, both parties view the race as critical. Democrats have numerous candidates focusing on various issues, while Republicans offer a smaller, more consolidated field. The dynamics are expected to shift as the election…

Who Is Running for Governor of Minnesota in 2026?

By Michael Phillips | Wisconsin Bay News | Election Desk The 2026 Minnesota gubernatorial election is shaping up to be one of the most consequential in the state in years. The election will be held on November 3, 2026, with party primaries scheduled for August 11, 2026. The race was dramatically reshaped on January 5,…

Minneapolis’ $250M Fraud Scandal Raises Uncomfortable Questions for City Hall

The ongoing federal investigation into Minnesota’s Feeding Our Future fraud case has cast doubt on Mayor Jacob Frey’s administration amid connections to individuals implicated in the $250 million scheme. While Frey and his wife have not been charged, their associations raise concerns about political oversight and accountability, highlighting vulnerabilities in government spending and ethics.

Tim Walz Likely to Exit 2026 Minnesota Governor’s Race, Reports Say

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has not officially dropped out of the 2026 governor’s race, but multiple credible reports indicate he is expected to announce he will not seek a third term on January 6. If confirmed, his exit would upend the Democratic field and open a rare statewide opportunity for Republicans amid ongoing scrutiny over…

Illinois DHS Data Exposure Raises Questions About Government Data Practices

The Illinois Department of Human Services disclosed a data exposure affecting over 670,000 residents due to misconfigured privacy settings on public planning maps. The incident, discovered in September 2025, has raised concerns about data security practices and the use of third-party tools. Steps for affected individuals include monitoring credit and being cautious of fraud.