Like the song in the musical Hamilton, WisEye has always been in the room where it happens.
WisconsinEye, a non-profit, nonpartisan network that covers Wisconsin state government, takes you behind the scenes in Madison, whether that be a floor session, committee meeting, or other civic event. You can watch it via live stream or catch the recording later.
WisEye captures legislators in action, public testimony, press conferences, candidate forums, inaugurations, legislator interviews … even convention speeches.
It has served an invaluable service since 2007, recording more than 16,000 hours of unfiltered, unedited events.
Despite that, funding issues are threatening to shutter WisEye for good.
The funding crisis
In late 2025, WisEye was forced to go dark for seven weeks. After state legislators of both parties publicly stated their support for WisconsinEye and funding was unanimously approved by a legislative committee, WisEye was back up and running.
According to Jon Henkes, President of WisconsinEye, the network has raised $30 million in private support over the years, but the current weak fundraising environment has not produced sufficient revenue. Legislative support could change that.
WisEye has requested an allocation of $50,000 per month, retroactive to May and continuing through March 2027, at which time the new legislature would have a chance to work to create a bipartisan plan of support.
In the meantime, WisEye is operating on a limited basis as it continues to raise funds and hold dialogue with legislators. Donor information is available on their website, but without state support, the network will cease operations.
The path forward
“Prospective donors are looking for evidence of a sustaining base of support,” Henkes said. “That will build their confidence to choose to invest their philanthropic dollars. What we are asking of the state, right now, will provide partial funding to continue through 2026 and into what will surely be high interest in the actions of a new legislature and new governor. With that state commitment now, donor confidence will rise and WisconsinEye will confidently move forward.”
Henkes said he thinks legislators understand that WisEye serves the public good.
“We are grateful for the positive conversations with state elected officials who care deeply about providing citizens with a transparent view of what happens in our State Capitol,” said Henkes. “Now we need for those encouraging words to turn into action.”
