Hamilton Political Tidbits – November 2, 2018

Political Tidbits - November 2, 2018
Hamilton Consulting Group
 November 2, 2018
Wisconsin political news for clients and colleagues.

Just a few days to go until the 2018 midterm elections! This special pre-election edition of Tidbits has our final analysis in key Wisconsin races. Plus, the final poll results before election day and more news from the state capitol.
If you wish to receive additional information about a topic addressed in Tidbits, please do not hesitate to 

Final 2018 Elections Preview

With only four days until the 2018 midterms, HCG has compiled our final preview of notable races. Our analysis lays out strengths and weakness of both gov campaigns in what seems to be a toss-up race. We also preview key state Senate races and analyze Democrats' chances for pick-ups in both chambers of the state legislature. And while incumbents are ahead in the Wisconsin U.S. Senate and House seats up for election this year, we compile the latest polls in key close races.

Continue reading the Final 2018 Elections Preview.
 
Final MU Poll Before Election Shows Close Gov, AG Races

On Oct. 31, Marquette University Law School (MU) released its final poll before the 2018 midterm elections. Overall, numbers remained largely the same as in the previous poll. Voter opinions on the economy remain positive, and the majority of voters still think Wisconsin is headed in the right direction. Gov. Scott Walker and Tony Evers are still tied, and U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin maintains a strong lead. Attorney General Brad Schimel is still up, but his lead has narrowed to a two point race.
 
 
CMS Approves BadgerCare Reform Demonstration Waiver

The federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has approved Wisconsin's Section 1115 BadgerCare Reform demonstration waiver. The waiver primarily makes changes to the BadgerCare childless adult (CLA) population in the state's Medicaid program.
 
 
Wisconsin Tort Costs Fair Well in U.S. Chamber Study

At its annual summit in October, the U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform released a comprehensive study on how the tort system imposes costs on society. The study shows Wisconsin's costs and compensation in its tort system fair well in comparison to other states.
 
 
State Finishes FY 2018 With Positive Balance
 
Click to enlarge graphic.

On Oct. 15, the Department of Administration (DOA) released the state fiscal report, detailing the final budget numbers for fiscal year 2018. The state ended the year with a balance of $588 million in general funds, which was $41 million more than budgeted.
 
 
Study Committee on Body Cameras Discusses First Draft of Bill

The Study Committee on the Use of Police Body Cameras met for what was expected to be the last time on Oct. 18. However, because of concerns with the current bill draft, it was determined that the committee will need to meet one final time.

Continue reading about the body cameras study committee.
 
Study Committee on Bail & Conditions of Pretrial Release Discusses Risk Assessments Data, Draft Ideas

The Study Committee on Bail & Conditions of Pretrial Release had their third meeting on Oct. 16. The committee heard from two presenters and began to develop ideas for potential draft legislation updating Wisconsin's pretrial detention processes.
 
 
Study Committee on School Trust Funds Discusses Next Steps

The Study Committee on Investment and Use of School Trust Funds met at the state capitol on Oct. 11 to hear from several presenters and to discuss next steps for the committee.
 
 


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Health
Utilities and Energy
Environment
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Economic Development
Economy adds 250K jobs in October: The Hill, November 2, 2018.

Transportation
Education
Colleges confront declining number of high school graduates: Wisconsin State Journal, November 1, 2018.

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