Meredith Hackler, Reporter

Meredith Hackler joined CBS 58 as the station’s Capitol correspondent in April of 2026, bringing more than a decade of newsroom experience. She has spent her career covering state and local government in Illinois, Indiana, and Minnesota, and has developed a strong belief that the best stories show how decisions at the Capitol affect people’s everyday lives.

That is why Meredith focuses on connecting with the community and hearing directly from you about the issues that matter most. She aims to report in a way that is thoughtful, thorough, and gives a clear picture of what is really happening.

Before coming to Wisconsin, Meredith spent four and a half years in Indianapolis, including four years covering the State Capitol. During that time, she reported on several major moments. Those include Indiana becoming one of the first states to ban abortion after Roe v. Wade was overturned, a redistricting fight that drew national attention, and the Indiana Pacers’ run to the NBA Finals.

Wisconsin is not new to Meredith. Her mom was born and raised in Racine, so she grew up making regular trips to the Badger State. Now, she is excited to be back and covering the Capitol.

When she is not working, Meredith is usually spending time with her dog, Daphne. Daphne enjoys dog parks, walking trails, and dog-friendly patios. Recommendations are always welcome!

One of Meredith’s favorite quotes is, “Journalism is the first rough draft of history.” It is something she keeps in mind every day and a big reason why she takes her role so seriously. If you have a story idea or an issue you think deserves attention, feel free to reach out by email or on social media.

Articles by Meredith Hackler

• Great Lakes Fusion Energy Summit focuses on Wisconsin’s nuclear fusion future
• Advocate is first to adopt Ridglan Farms beagle after 1,500 relocated from facility
• Ridglan Farms beagles recovered from breeding facility begin transition to shelters
• Rescue deal reached for hundreds of beagles at controversial Ridglan Farm
• Nearly 1,000 Ridglan Farms beagles to be transferred to rescue group
• Tax exemption for data centers could cost Wisconsin $2 billion; experts say there are ways for the state to recover losses
• Wisconsin regulators revise We Energies data center tariff to shift full costs to tech companies
• Evers declines meeting with Ridglan Farms activists following the group's request
• Wisconsin Supreme Court considers public access to voter eligibility documents
• Protesters urge Gov. Evers to intervene in beagle rescue at Dane County farm
• Senate Democrats lay out affordability plans as special session stalls
• Amtrak renews push for Hiawatha West expansion to Madison with new cost plan
• Lawmakers keep special session open to consider Governor Tony Evers ban on partisan gerrymandering