There's a lot to talk about this first week of December, but I want to begin with some ICE news in Milwaukee and then pivot to the rising health insurance premiums in Wisconsin once the subsidies that were holding costs down disappear after December 31, 2025.
ICE has been leasing space in a building currently owned by Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE). On Friday, December 5, from 1:00 - 3:30 a rally and march will be held there, 310 E Knapp St: On December 5th, we need YOU in Milwaukee to STAND UP to ICE and say: ICE out of Wisconsin! Show up!
The ICE lease at MSOE will end in April 2026. According to Urban Milwaukee (December 2, 2025), ICE will be leaving the MSOE building and moving its Milwaukee processing center to the Northwest side, at 11925 W. Lake Park Dr. in the Park Place business park. According to an ICE spokesman, the Park Place "facility will have processing stations plus temporary holding rooms. This will not be a detention facility." Protests have been held at both locations and will no doubt continue at the new location for the foreseeable future. Stay tuned and plan to participate. Let's take care of each other and protect our neighbors. ICE out of MKE!
On Thanksgiving, Newsweek published an article about the rise in health insurance premiums that people purchasing their policies through the Affordable Care Act exchanges will face when the subsidies expire at the end of this year. The piece begins "millions of Americans could face dramatically higher health insurance bills next year as enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits are set to run out." It goes on to detail, state by state, how much premiums on the exchange sites will change for a 60-year-old making 401% of the federal poverty level, which is equal to $62,757.
In Wisconsin, the premium for a silver plan for that 60-year-old will increase by 192%. Without the subsidy, it will average $1298 per month, or 25% of the individual's income! For a 40-year-old making the same $62,757 per year, the premium for a silver plan will average $611 per month, a 37% rise, and will account for 12% of the person's income.
It's likely that millions of people who have been able to afford health insurance through the ACA exchanges will no longer be able to do so. "According to analysis by KFF Health, the financial shock will be sharpest for older adults at middle incomes." When health insurance premiums require 25% or more of your annual income, the cost is simply too damn high! And even a 37% rise over the previous year is a lot to cope with.
Part of the reason premiums are rising so much is that "insurers expect that when the subsidies go away and the sort of broad swath of enrollees in the market face higher costs that some of those enrollees are going to drop out of the market and that the people who are going to left behind are going to be sicker than the average today. And so part of why sticker premiums are rising is insurers are anticipating that they’ll see that sicker risk pool and setting higher premiums to compensate" (Brookings, November 12, 2025).
The Hill reports that Republicans can't seem to reach a consensus on how to deal with the issue: GOP pessimism grows over any deal to extend expiring health care subsidies. "A solid group of Republican lawmakers in both the Senate and House don’t want to see the enhanced subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) expire at the end of the month. Many more, however, view ObamaCare as irretrievably broken, and an extension of beefed-up subsidies as policy heresy. That fracture within the party makes it very difficult to move legislation and is a reason for the GOP pessimism." Even the thrashing Republicans have been taking in election after election this year, where the issue of affordability (a Democratic hoax, don't you know) has been a big part of the hammering, has not persuaded those politicians to see and read the handwriting on the wall.
So as we head into the year of the midterms, it's worth taking a peek at the polling on the issue of affordability in general and health insurance specifically. Erum Salam, on MS NOW, reports that "In the first major election cycle since President Donald Trump retook office, Democratic candidates who put affordability at the heart of their campaigns won big Tuesday [November 4]." Meanwhile, NBC News reports that a record number of Americans are anxious about health care costs going into next year.
The lead Republican candidate for Wisconsin governor next year has been clear about where he stands. Currently the Representative for the 7th Congressional District in Northern Wisconsin, Tom Tiffany has admitted that Republicans don't have a plan for health care (Urban Milwaukee, November 12, 2025). And he does not seem inclined to vote to extend ACA subsidies. Instead, he "helped write a plan that would raise the age of eligibility for Medicare and Social Security, privatize Social Security, and turn Medicare into a voucher system."
Speaking of the race for governor next year, former Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes declared his candidacy yesterday. As the New York Times notes, the field of hopefuls is crowded and includes "David Crowley, the Milwaukee County executive; Francesca Hong, a state representative from Madison; Missy Hughes, who served as Mr. Evers’s top economic adviser; Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez; and State Senator Kelda Roys of Madison. Joel Brennan, a Milwaukee business executive who served in Mr. Evers’s cabinet, is also likely to join the race."
But first, there's a Supreme Court race to win. Nomination papers began circulating on Monday, December 1. You can download Judge Chris Taylor's nomination form and instructions for filling it out. You can circulate the form yourself to friends, neighbors, and family and then mail the form back to the campaign before Christmas. OR you can attend one of the signing events and holiday gatherings (and winter clothing drive) in the North Shore and Ozaukee County. Just sign up for one that's convenient for you:
- December 6 at Lakefront (1915 N Water St, Apt 208, Milwaukee) from 3:30 - 5:00pm;
- December 6 at Fox Point/Bayside (9293 N Waverly Dr, Bayside) from 4:00 - 5:30pm;
- December 6 at Glendale (6563 N Crestwood Dr, Glendale) from 4:30 - 6:00pm;
- December 9 at Shorewood (3900 Estabrook Pkwy) from 7:00 - 8:00pm;
- December 13 at Ozaukee County Dems Office (1245 Cheyenne Ave, Suite 103) from 10:00am - 1:30pm.
After the courts have ruled that Lindsay Halligan's appointment as US Attorney was not legal, the Trump regime seems to be looking for ways to re-indict James Comey — even though the statute of limitations has run out — and Letitia James. The chairs and ranking members of the Senate and House Armed Services committees plan to open investigations of the boat-bombing practices of the regime. And the clock timing the release of the Epstein files is ticking louder than ever. Exciting times!
EVENTS
Thursday, December 4
Building a Brighter Tomorrow: A Case for Keeping Our Wisconsin Promise for Adequate and Equitable School Funding, 6:30 - 8:00pm
Webinar
Join the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin for an in-depth conversation about how Wisconsin’s school funding system became one of the most inequitable in the nation, and what we can do to fix it. This timely webinar will unpack the history, challenges, and future of education funding in our state, featuring insights from leading experts and local education leaders. Register.
Saturday, December 6
Ozaukee Indivisible Pt. Washington Protest, 10:00am
762 W Grand Ave, Port Washington
The Ozaukee Dems affirms the right to peacefully protest the wrongful actions and overreach of the Trump Administration. We invite members to join our friends from Ozaukee Indivisible in their various actions.
Dems Holiday and Nomination Signature Drive! various times
various locations
Join a North Shore group of Dems for our last event of 2025! We'll be collecting winter clothing and accessories and toys to give away to families in need ahead of the holiday season. Join us for a drink or two and sign nomination signatures for Judge Chris Taylor while you're at it! Events will be held on this date in
- Lakefront (1915 N Water St, Apt 208, Milwaukee) from 3:30 - 5:00pm;
- Fox Point/Bayside (9293 N Waverly Dr, Bayside) from 4:00 - 5:30pm;
- Glendale (6563 N Crestwood Dr, Glendale) from 4:30 - 6:00pm.
4th CD Holiday Party 6:00 - 9:00pm
Broken Bat Brewery (The Lumber Room), 135 Pittsburgh Ave, Milwaukee
Because the government shutdown caused considerable hardship for families in Milwaukee and our state, we're asking everyone who's able to bring one or more canned goods to help support our local food pantries and those who need it most. Tickets (donations) are $25 and up. Please JOIN US in celebrating this holiday season and our accomplishments from the past year.
Tuesday, December 9
Shorewood Resists Weekly Overpass Protest, 3:00 - 4:30pm
Capitol Dr I43 Overpass, Shorewood
Stand up to authoritarianism! We are protesting every Tuesday. Everyone is welcome! Bring a sign or use one of ours. Find updates and more events on Facebook at Shorewood Resists.
Shorewood Dems Holiday and Nomination Signature Drive! 7:00 - 8:00pm
3900 Estabrook Pkwy, Shorewood
Join Shorewood Dems for our last event of 2025! We'll be collecting winter clothing and accessories and toys to give away to families in need ahead of the holiday season. Join us for a drink or two and sign nomination signatures for Judge Chris Taylor while you're at it! Sign up.
Wednesday, December 10
Navigating Civil Liberties, 6:30 - 8:00pm
Inventors Brewpub Edison Room, 305 East Washington Street, Pt Washington
Immigrant rights, Citizen rights, Private Property, 287(g), Red Card. Facilitated by Norma Duckworth from Voces de la Frontera. Use the "Check availability" button on the website to sign up.
Viewing of "History Has Its Eyes On Us", 6:30 - 8:00pm
Dem Party Office, 1245 Cheyenne Ave, Grafton
Join the Ozaukee Country Democrats for a viewing of "History Has Its Eyes On Us", a special conversation with Hillary Clinton, Heather Cox Richardson and Lin-Manuel Miranda. Sign up.
December Banned Book Club: The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende, 6:30 - 8:00pm
Virtual
The House of the Spirits is the first novel by world-renowned author, Isabel Allende. The novel is a family saga that spans three generations of a Chilean family living through a turbulent time. The book uses magical realism to explore political and social issues. Parents in North Carolina and California have attempted to have Allende’s book removed from school curriculum because they felt it was too graphic. Sign up.
Thursday, December 11
Flip the 21st Assembly District, 5:30 - 7:30pm
Bay View: Address with RSVP
Please join us for an event in support of Jessica Seawright for Assembly. Find out more about Jessica. Donate to her campaign: Host $1,000 | Sponsor $500 | Friend $250 | Attendee $100 | All contributions in any amount gratefully accepted and appreciated. To RSVP, email [email protected]. To join the Host Committee, please email [email protected]. Make checks payable to Friends of Jessica Seawright, P.O.Box 370462, Milwaukee, Wiscsonsin 53207.
Our Wisconsin Constitution: Milwaukee, 6:00 - 8:00pm
Black Historical Society, 2620 W Center St, Milwaukee
Wisconsin’s Constitution is being reshaped by harmful amendments that put politics over people and once they’re in, they’re nearly impossible to undo. Join us for Our Wisconsin, Our Constitution statewide tour, a free community event with dinner, interactive activities, and conversation about how amendments impact our democracy and what we can do to put power back in the hands of the people. Come curious, leave empowered - this is a nonpartisan event, all are welcome. Register.
Saturday, December 13
Voter Registration Training, 9:30 - 11:30am
Summit Place, Room Glass Patio
6737 W Washington St, West Allis
With spring elections for Supreme Court and municipal officials right around the corner and a fall election that will elect a new Governor and could change the majority of the state legislature, it is more important than ever to have enough volunteers trained to help people register to vote. To get ready for this big election year LWVMC is holding another in person training program. Learn how to register people to vote using MyVote.wi.gov. Learn what is acceptable photo ID for voting in WIsconsin and how to acquire it. join league members as we prepare to help our community get ready for this big election year. This program will include a special training session that focuses on unique issues related to the jail based voter registration system. Register here.
Ozaukee County Democrats Winter Clothing Driving and Judge Chris Taylor Nomination Signature Event! 10:00am - 1:30pm
1245 Cheyenne Avenue, Ste. 103, Grafton
Join us on Saturday, December 13 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for Coffee, Tea, and Democracy, and again on Wednesday, December 17 from 5–7 p.m. (with our monthly membership meeting to follow). We’ll be collecting winter clothing donations and gathering signatures for Judge Chris Taylor’s nomination papers to help ensure she’s on the ballot this spring! Learn more and sign up.
Milwaukee County Winter Holiday Giveaway, 12:00 - 2:00pm
WI Dems Field Office, 8405 W Lisbon Ave, Milwaukee
Wisconsin Democrats are Supporting Families in a Time of Rising Costs! Join us for our Winter Warmth Giveaway, a community event offering free coats and toys to children and families in need. New and gently used coats and winter clothing will be available in a variety of sizes for kids and adults. Toys for children of all ages—just in time for the holidays! Whether you're looking to keep your family warm or bring a smile to a child’s face, this event is here to help. PLEASE RSVP TO HELP ESTIMATE ATTENDANCE - This event is first come, first serve! Sign up.
Monday, December 15
Astor Street Regulars: Craig Gilbert, 12:00pm
Wisconsin Club, 900 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee
Craig Gilbert, a keen observer of national and Wisconsin politics, will analyze the political environment in Wisconsin and nationally ahead of the 2026 midterms, and explore how Donald Trump has managed to wield so much power despite spending almost his entire political career "under water" in the polls (more disliked than liked by the American public.) Please respond by Wednesday, December 10th by contacting Phyllis Bankier. Lunch will be $35. Cash preferred, pay at the door. We must hold you to your reservations as we are charged for all lunches not canceled 5 days before the event.
Tuesday, December 16
When the World's on Fire: Caring for Ourselves and Our Kids, 6:30 - 7:30pm
Virtual
Between headlines about political violence, ICE raids, gun violence, and constant uncertainty, it’s no wonder both kids and adults are feeling anxious and overwhelmed. How do we talk to children about what’s happening in the world without spreading our own fear? And how do we take care of ourselves so we can actually show up for them? Join psychologist Dr. Stephanie Citron and therapist Deborah Paris (also known as Red Wine & Blue founder Katie Paris' mother and mother-in-law) for an important conversation about parenting through chaos. They’ll share practical advice on talking to kids about tough issues, helping them manage anxiety, and ways for adults to stay grounded and resilient in challenging times. You’ll leave with tools to care for your kids and protect your own mental health when the world feels like it’s on fire. See you there! Sign up.
Wednesday, December 17
Ozaukee Democrats Monthly Meeting, 7:00pm
Oz Dems Office, 1245 Cheyenne Ave., #103,Grafton
Join us for our monthly meeting to get the latest updates on our fight to turn Ozaukee County blue and find out how you can help. We’ll also wrap up our Winter Clothing Driving and Judge Chris Taylor Nomination Signature Event just before the Monthly Meeting, from 5-7. Learn more and sign up.
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