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Wisconsin’s version of DOGE, Climate migration, Traditional folk dancing

Air Date:
Heard On Wisconsin Today
A wide field with green grass under a dark, looming stormy sky. Dense clouds gather on the horizon above distant trees.
A storm rolls in over a field at Hancock Agricultural Research Station in the Central Sands region of Wisconsin, July 2019. The Midwest Climate Hub provides data and resources to help farmers manage typical and extreme weather events, but the organization’s work has been threatened by the Trump administration’s massive cuts to the federal workforce. Photo courtesy of Tracy Campbell

Two Assembly lawmakers discuss expectations for a new committee modeled after Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency. Then, a local journalist talks about how climate change affects Wisconsin migration. And a Viroqua dance instructor shares their experience teaching traditional folk dances.

Featured in this Episode

  • State level efficiency committee targets remote work

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    In an attempt to slash government spending, Republicans in the Legislature have created a committee modeled after Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency. Two members of the Assembly’s Committee on Government, Operations, Accountability and Transparency, or GOAT, offer insights.

  • Wisconsin's largest voucher school

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    We take a look at Academy of Excellence in Milwaukee, which will receive $40 million in state tax subsidies this year to become the state’s largest voucher school. The school has recruited many students to enroll virtually.

  • Will Wisconsin become a destination for climate migrants?

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    Media often hails Wisconsin as a possible “climate haven,” insulated from the most dangerous effects of climate change. We talk with a climate journalist about where people fleeing climate disasters move and why.

  • Dancing Sue teaches Wisconsinites how to do-si-do

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    Sue Hulsether from Viroqua has traveled around the country to lead traditional folk dances in communities and schools, where the kids call her “Dancing Sue.” We talk to Sue about her unique work maintaining this tradition of “dance calling” and what she’s learned along the way.

Episode Credits

  • Rob Ferrett Host
  • Kate Archer Kent Host
  • Rep. Francesca Hong Guest
  • Rep. David Steffen Guest
  • Alexandra Tempus Guest
  • Sue Hulsether Guest
  • Mackenzie Krumme Producer
  • Beatrice Lawrence Producer
  • Richelle Wilson Producer
  • Tyler Ditter Technical Director
  • Sarah Hopefl Technical Director
  • Dean Knetter Executive Producer
  • Tim Peterson Managing Producer

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