These experts from the UW–Madison faculty and staff have agreed to comment on breaking news, ongoing developments and trends in their areas of expertise. If you need help arranging interviews, email the Office of Strategic Communication.
Experts on the news
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Jonathan Temte on: Resurgence in U.S Measles Cases
With the United States reporting its highest number of measles cases in decades, public health officials are raising concerns about declining vaccination rates, growing outbreaks, and the potential loss of the nation's measles elimination status.
Jon Temte, professor of family medicine and community health at the University of Wisconsin Madison, is a physician, vaccine researcher, and former member of the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. He studies immunization, vaccine policy, and infectious disease prevention.
He can speak to:
- Why the U.S. is experiencing its largest measles resurgence in decades and the factors contributing to continued transmission.
- What declining vaccination rates mean for community immunity and why outbreaks are becoming more difficult to contain.
- What's at stake if measles continues to spread, including the implications for public health and future outbreak response.
- What individuals and families should know about MMR vaccination, immunity, and protecting themselves and their communities.
Recent Media:
The New York Times- July 2026
PBS News- July 2026
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Barry Burden on: Wisconsin's 2026 Elections and the Political Landscape
As Wisconsin's election season accelerates, key legislative races are drawing increased attention for what they could mean for the balance of power in the state Capitol. The campaigns also offer an early look at voter priorities, turnout dynamics, and the issues likely to shape the November election.
Barry Burden, Professor of Political Science and Director of the Elections Research Center at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, studies elections, voting behavior, political campaigns, and election administration.
He can speak to:
- The legislative races and political trends to watch as Wisconsin's election season unfolds.
- What candidate recruitment, campaign strategy, and voter engagement reveal about the state's political environment.
- How Wisconsin's election results could shape policymaking and provide insight into broader national political trends.
Recent Media:
Wisconsin Watch- July 2026
