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July 10, 2026

The Mic Drops For Mad Lit, Plus Guv Race Shakeups, and County Jail Troubles

City Cast Madison

The Mic Drops For Mad Lit, Plus Guv Race Shakeups, and County Jail Troubles

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There’s a lot going on in Madison this summer. But not Mad Lit. The popular concert series that has brought thousands to State Street each summer is dark in 2026 due to funding issues. Hip-hop artist Rob Dz and Urban Community Arts Network Co-President Karen Reece come on the podcast to talk about the future of Mad Lit. Plus, host Bianca Martin and executive producer Hayley Sperling talk about the latest casualty in the governor’s race and some frustrating news about the county jail.

Mentioned on the show:

Milwaukee County Exec David Crowley Withdraws From Governor’s Race [Milwaukee Journal Sentinel]
Dane County Won’t Close ‘Borderline Unconstitutional’ Jail As Planned [Cap Times]

Lights Out For Mad Lit [Isthmus]

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