The Maggie Daun Show

In this hour, Maggie unpacks the economic and legal chaos reshaping American life. First, she digs into Donald Trump’s erratic tariff policies—policies that, as economist Lindsay Owens explains, have triggered higher consumer costs and destabilized entire sectors. Owens also breaks down the “Big Brutal Bill,” a sweeping piece of legislation that slashes vital public services while enriching the wealthiest Americans. Maggie also examines the judiciary. A recent Supreme Court ruling greenlights mass federal employee firings, raising red flags about government accountability. Meanwhile, in Wisconsin, a court ruling upholding administrative rulemaking marks a small victory for democratic checks and balances—despite a harsh, backward-looking dissent from Justice Rebecca Bradley. Attorney Jeff Mandell from Law Forward joins the conversation to explore the legal power struggle between the judiciary and the legislature, particularly as it pertains to issues like the controversial ban on conversion therapy. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guests: Jeff Mandell, Lindsay Owens

Maggie delivers a jam-packed hour with guest co-host Angela Lang. They dissect the mounting threats to labor rights in America and opens with the Supreme Court's latest decision that clears the way for the Trump administration's federal workforce cuts, with Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s dissent warning of dire consequences for public service protections. They also discuss Milwaukee’s potential transit strike, drawing attention to the vital role public transportation plays in daily life and economic access. Plus, Wisconsin AFL-CIO President Stephanie Bloomingdale joins, calling out the "Big Brutal Bill" for what it is: a direct assault on the middle class and all working people, unionized or not. She warns of another underreported threat buried in the bill—preempting state regulation of artificial intelligence. As AI continues to reshape the workforce, Bloomingdale argues that the need for organized labor and strong worker protections has never been greater. From fair wages to workplace dignity, one thing is clear: the future of labor is on the line. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guests: Angela Lang, Stephanie Bloomingdale

Maggie and Matt Rothschild dig into the intersection of politics and public safety—from Governor Evers’ hint at a third term to the devastating floods sweeping through Texas. They explore Evers’ centrist appeal and the growing call for fresh Democratic leadership, reflecting broader frustrations with the limitations of the two-party system. Turning to the Texas floods, they highlight how weakened government oversight—especially regulatory rollbacks under the Trump administration—has left communities vulnerable. These so-called “100-year floods” are becoming more frequent, exposing the urgent need for early warning systems and comprehensive flood management. Maggie and Matt make the case that disasters like these aren’t just acts of nature—they’re policy failures. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guest: Matt Rothschild

Maggie opens the show with Matt Rothschild, unpacking Wisconsin’s turbulent political landscape. With the biennial state budget now signed, State Senator Dianne Hesselbein joins to highlight key Democratic wins: increased funding for special education, vital support for the UW system, and critical relief for childcare providers. Despite strong GOP opposition, Democrats pushed through meaningful investments in Wisconsin’s future. But compromise hasn’t come without criticism, underscoring the ongoing challenges of bipartisan governance. National and international headlines also intensify—from Trump’s latest controversial policy proposals to breaking legal developments in El Salvador’s case against the U.S. And in a move sure to spark speculation, Governor Tony Evers drops hints about a possible third term. The political fireworks aren’t just for the Fourth—they’re lighting up every corner of Wisconsin politics too! The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guests: Matt Rothschild, Dianne Hesselbein

Guest host Matt Rothschild is joined by friend of the show Jim Santelle on the eve of Independence Day. Our country is facing tough times, but we remain motivated and ready to stand up for our America. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guest: Jim Santelle

Guest host Matt Rothschild is joined by special guest Dr. Robert Kraig to discuss two controversial pieces of legislation passed today. In Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has signed a new budget passed by the state's Republican controlled legislature. Meanwhile in Washington D.C., President Trump's so-called Big Beautiful Bill passes through the House of Representatives. What comes next? What's the future for Democrats in our state and our country? Join Matt as he finds out. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guest: Robert Kraig

As we near July 4th, Maggie explores how Americans can transcend political division and strengthen democracy through shared values. In this hour, Maggie is joined political scientist Katherine Cramer, author of The Politics of Resentment, to examine the roots of rural discontent in Wisconsin and its national impact. Cramer sheds light on the sense of neglect felt in rural communities—and how that resentment shapes political behavior. The conversation also highlights how authentic, grounded leaders like Senator Tammy Baldwin connect across divides. Maggie emphasizes that despite our differences, most Americans want the same things: affordable healthcare, strong public education, and fair wages. She calls on us to engage in meaningful dialogue and vote for policies that reflect a truly free and equitable society. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guest: Kathy Cramer

Maggie hosts a July 4th special dissecting America's democratic foundations and current challenges. Historian David Voelker explores myths like Manifest Destiny and American exceptionalism, emphasizing the complexity and influence of Native cultures in shaping the U.S. He highlights the Declaration of Independence as an 'accountability document' urging citizens to uphold democratic ideals. Political scientist Howard Schweber critiques the erosion of the separation of powers in modern America, warning against the dismantling of New Deal-era regulations that protect public welfare. He argues this shift benefits elites and local authorities, threatening national solutions to national problems. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guests: Howard Schweber, David Voelker

In the second hour, Maggie and guest co-host Jim Santelle dive into whether Democrats are constantly playing catch-up—struggling to anticipate the next move from the Trump administration. They argue that it's time to stop reacting and start seeing the bigger picture. It’s not enough to simply decry the courts or the administration—we need to connect the dots and explain how these actions directly impact people’s lives. They also discuss the real point of the so-called "Big Brutal Bill?" Tax breaks for billionaires—at the expense of working Americans. Kristen Crowell, Executive Director of Fair Share America, joins the conversation to sound the alarm: it’s all hands on deck as the bill heads back to the House of Representatives. She stresses that only a handful of Republicans need to step up, protect their constituents, and stand up to the president. Crowell says outrage is growing on both sides of the aisle all across the country. There’s no rational justification for this bill, she says—but there is real, people-powered resistance. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guests: Jim Santelle, Kristen Crowell

Maggie is joined by guest co-host Jim Santelle as they kick off the hour with Senator LaTonya Johnson. She breaks down the newly agreed upon Wisconsin budget bill and highlights the compromises struck between Republicans and Democrats—emphasizing that, at times, concessions are necessary to improve the lives of Wisconsinites. Senator Johnson also underscores key wins in the budget, including increased funding for childcare and education across the state. Then, Maggie and Jim turn their attention to the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling on birthright citizenship. They examine how the Trump administration continues to skirt the law and undermine the Constitution—raising serious concerns that, in less than a month, deporting babies might not be out of the question. Maggie also reminds us: we are the ones who must stand up against injustice. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guests: Jim Santelle, LaTonya Johnson

As Maggie enjoys an extended holiday weekend, Matt Rothschild and Angela Lang step in as today’s guest co-hosts. They kick off the hour with Tanya Atkinson, President of Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin, to unpack the potential fallout from the so-called “Big Brutal” bill. This legislation aims to eliminate Medicaid funding for services provided by Planned Parenthood—a move that could have devastating consequences for healthcare access statewide. With 60% of Wisconsinites relying on Medicaid and Planned Parenthood offering a broad range of critical services, this bill threatens to drive up medical costs and drastically reduce access to care—particularly for vulnerable and rural communities already facing limited healthcare options. As Tanya makes clear: this is a fight to the end, because lives are on the line. Call your local Wisconsin representatives today and tell them where you stand on Medicaid funding and reproductive healthcare. Sen. Ron Johnson Washington DC: (202) 224-5323 Milwaukee: (414) 276-7282 Madison: (608) 240-9629 Oshkosh: (920) 230-7250 Rep. Bryan Steil Washington DC: (202) 225-3031 Milwaukee County: (414) 285-2120 Bristol District Office: (262) 654-1901 Janesville District Office: (608) 752-4050 Racine District Office: (262) 637-0510 Rep. Derrick Van Orden Washington DC: (202) 225-5506 LaCrosse District Office: (608) 782-2558 Eau Claire District Office: (715) 831-9214 Rep. Scott Fitzgerald Washington DC: (202) 225-5101 Oconomowoc District Office: (262) 784-1111 Rep. Glenn Grothman Washington DC: (202) 225-2476 Fond Du Lac Office: (920) 907-0624 Rep. Tom Tiffany Washington DC: (202) 225-3365 Wausau District Office: (715) 298-9344 Rep. Tony Wied Washington DC: (202) 225-5665 DePere District Office: (920) 301-4500 The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guests: Angela Lang, Tanya Atkinson

While Maggie is away for the long pre–July 4 weekend, today's show is guest-hosted by Matt Rothschild and Angela Lang. They kick off the hour with a timely conversation about what Independence Day means in 2025—especially at a time when many Americans are struggling to celebrate freedoms they feel are under threat. Later in the hour, Iuscely “Cely” Flores from the Wisconsin Fair Maps Coalition (fairmapswi.com) joins the conversation. Cely shares details about the statewide community hearings on fair maps happening throughout the summer. She also opens up about her journey as a Dreamer during the Trump administration, and why she refuses to live in the shadows. Instead, she’s using her voice to advocate for all Wisconsinites. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guests: Angela Lang, Iuscely Flores

In a seismic 6-3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court strikes down the use of universal injunctions, limiting federal judges' ability to block executive actions nationwide. The ruling carries far-reaching consequences—from immigration policy and birthright citizenship to civil rights enforcement—reshaping the legal landscape across the country. As guest host Jim Santelle discuses, Justice Sonia Sotomayor blasted the majority opinion as a “travesty,” warning of a chaotic legal patchwork that could undermine uniform protections under federal law. Jim also unpacks several other explosive rulings: new restrictions on minors’ access to online pornography, the expansion of parental rights to opt children out of LGBTQ+ curriculum, and the Court’s surprising decision to uphold preventive care under the Affordable Care Act. With the Court’s ideological divide deepening, these decisions set the stage for fierce legal, cultural, and political battles ahead. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show!

Guest host Jim Santelle guides us through a high-stakes day in U.S. law and politics as the Supreme Court releases six consequential opinions, including a landmark ruling on birthright citizenship and a decision curbing the power of federal judges to issue nationwide injunctions. Jim is joined by John Vaudreuil of Keep Our Republic to unpack the persistent—and unfounded—claims of 2020 election fraud that continue to resurface. They spotlight the strength and transparency of Wisconsin’s voting system while stressing the urgent need for civic literacy. John calls on us to engage actively in protecting democracy by contacting local clerks, becoming election observers, and staying informed. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guest: John Vaudreuil

Maggie unpacks the ethical firestorm surrounding Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Rebecca Bradley’s appearance at a partisan fundraiser, raising serious questions about judicial integrity. She contrasts the outrage—or lack thereof—with scrutiny faced by Justice Rebecca Dallet, highlighting glaring double standards within the judiciary. Maggie also focuses to the devastating implications of the so-called “Big Brutal Bill,” a Republican-led proposal slashing Medicaid and vital social services. With the Senate parliamentarian blocking critical budget protections, Maggie exposes how these cuts will harm Wisconsin’s most vulnerable—jeopardizing healthcare, food security, and basic human dignity—all while billionaires benefit from generous tax breaks. Hypocrisy and elitist policymaking at it's best! The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show!

Maggie begins today's show by unpacking the far-reaching consequences of recent U.S. military strikes on Iran with expert guests Russell Lucas and Allison McManus. Together, they explore whether the bombings deterred Iran’s nuclear ambitions—or merely poured fuel on an already volatile situation. The discussion then shifts to the stark contrast between the Trump administration’s soaring military expenditures and its deep cuts to veterans' programs and essential social services. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guest: Russell Lucas

As Wisconsin’s childcare funding cliff approaches, up to 90,000 slots could vanish by June 30—leaving families and providers in a state of emergency. Guests Corrine Hendrickson and Tricia Peterson sound the alarm, detailing how families could soon face monthly costs exceeding $1,600. Despite a $4 billion state surplus, GOP leaders Robin Vos and Devin LeMahieu have yet to take meaningful action. This bipartisan crisis threatens working parents, the economy, and the stability of early childhood education statewide. Maggie also explores the role of honest political messaging in shaping voter trust and the outcomes of future elections. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guests: Charles Franklin, Corrine Hendrickson, Tricia Peterson

Maggie and Political Editor Dan Shafer unpack Wisconsin’s escalating budget crisis, focusing on the looming collapse of childcare funding as subsidies near expiration. With Republicans stalling budget negotiations, Governor Tony Evers is urged to take a firmer stand to protect working families from the growing threat of childcare deserts. Maggie calls on him to harness public support to defend education, childcare, and other vital services. Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway joins the conversation with "Broad Appeal" to highlight how state and federal budget decisions affect local communities, from housing to shared revenue. Mayor Rhodes-Conway urges us all to get involved and help shape a more equitable future. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guests: Dan Shafer, Satya Rhodes-Conway

Maggie jumps into Wisconsin's pivotal role in national politics, emphasizing the urgent need for fair maps and the removal of money from politics to ensure true representation. With guests like Nick Ramos of Wisconsin Democracy Campaign, they tackle the looming mid-decade redistricting and its potential impact on the House of Representatives. The episode highlights the dysfunction in Congress due to gerrymandering and billionaire influence, with Elon Musk's interference in local elections as a prime example. Fairness extends to local issues like Milwaukee's road funding crisis, underscoring the systemic inequities plaguing communities statewide. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guests: Nick Ramos, Jeramey Jannene

Maggie takes a deep dive into Wisconsin’s most urgent challenges with guests Angela Lang and Emily Miota from Kids Forward (kidsforward.org). Maggie takes a critical look at Milwaukee’s response to crime, calling for greater investment in violence prevention and youth programming. Emily highlights the state’s stark racial disparities in child outcomes—despite Wisconsin ranking 11th nationally in overall child well-being. With the state budget on the line, the conversation explores opportunities for meaningful reform, including postpartum care and lead remediation. Maggie also unpacks the Republican efforts to override the governor’s vetoes, underscoring the high political stakes shaping Wisconsin’s future FROM THE 2025 KIDS COUNT Data Book. For the full study, visit https://kidsforward.org/black-white-racial-disparities-remain-in-wisconsin-2025-kids-count-data-book-indicators-show/ Yet again, Wisconsin leads the nation in many disparities in outcomes of Black and white children in our state, according to data in the Kids Count Data Center supporting the 2025 KIDS COUNT Data Book, a 50-state report of recent data developed by the Annie E. Casey Foundation analyzing how kids are faring in post-pandemic America. As decision makers draft Wisconsin’s state budget, they have an opportunity to implement targeted investments in solutions that can end these racial disparities so that every family can thrive. Recent federal attacks on the mere existence of data for specific racial and ethnic groups—driven by a harmful narrative that centers whiteness—hurts Wisconsin more deeply. Why? Because outcomes for Black and white children in Wisconsin often show a larger gap than in any other state. Kids Forward has long worked to track and compare well-being indicators for Wisconsin’s Black children and families and white children and families. Each year, the Data Book presents national and state data from 16 indicators in four domains — economic well-being, education, health, and family and community factors — and ranks the states according to how children are faring overall. While Wisconsin ranks 11th among all states, data that groups everyone in our state together doesn’t show the full picture. For 6 of the 15 KIDS COUNT Data Book indicators for which disaggregated data is available, Wisconsin’s racial disparities are some of the largest in the country, including: The state budget offers policy makers a critical opportunity to start to address some of these disparities immediately by: In its 36th year of publication, the KIDS COUNT Data Book provides reliable statewide numbers to help leaders see where progress is being made, where greater support is needed and which strategies are making a difference. The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show! Guests: Angela Lang, Emily Miota