MADISON – Senator Van Wanggaard (R-Racine) is releasing the names of over 800 inmates asking Governor Tony Evers for commutation of their sentences. Evers’ Commutation Board is holding its first meeting on Friday, when they will hear the applications of 8 people, including 6 murderers, 4 of which were convicted of First-Degree Intentional Homicide and 1 convicted of two counts of First- Degree Intentional Homicide.
“For four months, Evers’ plan to release criminals early has been clouded in secrecy,” said Wanggaard. “The public has a right to know which dangerous criminals Evers is considering releasing. And it’s clear it’s some of the worst-of-the-worst.”
Wanggaard filed an Open Records Request with Evers’ office seeking all commutation applications on May 19, 2026. On Tuesday, Evers’ office provided Wanggaard’s office with a list of inmates seeking commutations, and the application materials for the eight people whose applications are being heard on Friday. Interestingly, it appears that every District Attorney that prosecuted the cases opposes the commutation of the sentences, and only one judge who provided a sentence was open to having a commutation be considered, given the wishes of the victims’ family.
“The people who prosecuted and heard these cases oppose the commutations nearly unanimously,” Wanggaard said. “Now, Governor Evers is using hand-picked, unelected bureaucrats to second guess the people actually involved in the case to overturn their sentences years later! That should upset everyone in Wisconsin.”
>> WisPolitics is now on the State Affairs network. Get custom keyword notifications, bill tracking and all WisPolitics content. Get the app or access via desktop.
Wanggaard’s office is still reviewing the over 1,800 pages of documents provided on Tuesday, along with the criminal histories of the 800 felons requesting commutations. Wanggaard’s office will also be seeking additional records from Evers’ office.
Members of the media and public can view the list of the 810 applications submitted through August 14, 2026 by going to SenatorWanggaard.com or clicking here. Those seeking to watch Evers’ Commutation Board on Friday can view it here or going to wiseye.org/live.
