In a high-stakes judicial election with national implications, liberal candidate Susan Crawford has emerged victorious in Wisconsin’s Supreme Court race, defeating conservative Brad Schimel. The outcome maintains the court’s 4-3 liberal majority and deals a significant blow to Republican efforts to regain control of the state’s highest judicial body.
Crawford’s win follows an intensely competitive and record-breaking campaign, with nearly $100 million spent collectively by both sides. The race saw significant outside influence, most notably from billionaire Elon Musk, who backed Schimel with substantial financial contributions and vocal public endorsements. However, this involvement may have backfired, mobilizing Democratic and independent voters who opposed the perception of excessive outside influence in Wisconsin’s judicial system.
A Crucial Victory for Liberals
Crawford’s victory solidifies liberal control of the Wisconsin Supreme Court at a time when key cases concerning abortion rights, voting laws, and redistricting are expected to be heard. The court’s composition has been a focal point in recent years, particularly after the election of liberal Justice Janet Protasiewicz in 2023, which shifted the balance of power.
“This election reaffirms Wisconsin voters’ commitment to judicial independence and fairness,” Crawford said in her victory speech. “Our courts must remain a place where justice is served without political interference or outside pressure.”
Her opponent, Schimel, a former state attorney general, was widely supported by conservative groups and endorsed by former President Donald Trump. His campaign emphasized a commitment to originalist interpretations of the law and a tough-on-crime stance. However, Democratic-aligned groups were successful in framing the race as a fight against extremism and corporate interference, particularly in response to Musk’s heavy financial involvement.
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The Musk Factor and Republican Strategy Concerns
Musk’s deep financial backing of Schimel’s campaign—reportedly over $20 million through various political action committees—made national headlines. The tech billionaire, who has increasingly engaged in political funding, personally promoted Schimel’s candidacy on social media and in interviews. While some analysts expected this support to give Schimel an edge, it appears to have had the opposite effect, drawing backlash from voters wary of billionaires influencing state-level elections.
“Wisconsin voters sent a clear message that they won’t be swayed by out-of-state billionaires trying to buy their courts,” said Ben Wikler, chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party. “This was a rejection of Musk’s political overreach and a victory for democracy.”
For Republicans, the result is a worrying signal ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Despite GOP victories in two Florida House special elections on the same day, Schimel’s loss in Wisconsin suggests a potential vulnerability in key battleground states.
“Republicans have to reassess our messaging and voter outreach strategies,” said a senior GOP strategist. “We can’t afford to alienate moderates and independents, especially in swing states like Wisconsin.”
Legal and Political Implications
The Wisconsin Supreme Court plays a pivotal role in shaping the state’s laws and policies. With Crawford’s win, liberal justices are expected to take up cases related to voting rights, gerrymandering, and abortion laws. One of the most anticipated legal battles involves Wisconsin’s electoral maps, which Democrats argue have been heavily gerrymandered to favor Republicans. A ruling in favor of redistricting reforms could shift the balance of power in the state legislature ahead of the 2026 elections.
Additionally, Wisconsin remains one of the key battlegrounds in presidential elections, and the court’s rulings could have nationwide ramifications. The court has previously been involved in cases related to mail-in voting and election certification, making its composition a matter of national interest.
Reaction from Both Sides
Democratic leaders have hailed the result as a triumph for fair governance and judicial independence. President Joe Biden’s campaign team, gearing up for his re-election bid, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, viewing it as a sign of voter resistance to far-right influence.
On the other side, Republicans are debating their next steps. Some have called for a more moderate approach to judicial elections, while others argue that a more aggressive stance is needed to counteract Democratic momentum in statewide races.
Schimel, in his concession speech, acknowledged the results but cautioned that the fight for conservative legal principles is far from over. “While this was not the outcome we hoped for, our commitment to the Constitution and the rule of law remains steadfast,” he said.
Looking Ahead
As Wisconsin moves forward, Crawford’s tenure on the Supreme Court will be closely watched. With major cases likely to come before the court in the coming months, her role in shaping legal precedent in the state will be critical.
Meanwhile, both political parties will take lessons from this election as they prepare for the upcoming midterms. For Democrats, the key takeaway is the power of voter mobilization and resistance to billionaire influence. For Republicans, the challenge lies in refining their electoral strategy to appeal to a broader base without alienating moderates.
In the end, the Wisconsin Supreme Court election has reinforced the state’s reputation as a political battleground, with outcomes that could have lasting effects on both state and national politics.
