High-Stakes Wisconsin Supreme Court Race Draws National Attention and Major Funding

MADISON, Wis. — The competitive race for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court has intensified, drawing significant financial backing and national interest as it could influence pivotal issues such as abortion rights and voting regulations. The election is scheduled for Tuesday, with liberal Judge Susan Crawford challenging conservative Judge Brad Schimel for the seat vacated by retiring liberal justice Ann Walsh Bradley.

With a liberal majority of 4-3, the outcome could shift the balance of the court, which will deliberate on critical cases, including Wisconsin’s controversial 1849 abortion ban. The election has reportedly become the most expensive judicial race in American history, with both campaigns spending over $80 million.

Billionaire Elon Musk has emerged as a prominent player in the contest, contributing more than $20 million through his super PACs. Musk recently challenged a Wisconsin law that prohibits Tesla from opening direct car dealerships in the state, further intertwining his interests with the outcome of this election. “This is kind of a test case for Elon Musk,” Crawford stated in an interview. “He wants to make sure that nothing stands in the way of what he’s doing.”

Musk has offered incentives to those opposing “activist judges,” including $100 for petition signatures. However, a recent social media post about campaigning and giveaways was deleted amid concerns it could violate state laws. Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul, a Democrat, also attempted to halt Musk’s financial giveaway.

The immense spending on the race underscores a growing realization of the judiciary’s influence on major political issues. According to Bryna Godar, a staff attorney at the University of Wisconsin Law School, state courts can significantly impact elections, especially in swing states like Wisconsin, which narrowly voted for Trump in 2024 and Biden in 2020.

Schimel, a former Republican attorney general, aligns closely with Trump’s political agenda. He has openly praised Trump and criticized state judicial decisions unfavorable to the former president. His campaign did not return requests for comments. In stark contrast, Crawford, endorsed by former President Barack Obama, has focused on the implications of the election for voting rights and abortion access.

The race has galvanized Democratic voters, who view it as a referendum on Musk’s involvement. State Democratic Party Chair Ben Wikler highlighted efforts to motivate Democrats by showcasing Musk’s connections to Schimel. “If Brad Schimel loses this race and Susan Crawford wins, it’ll become clear to Democrats that they can fight back against Musk,” Wikler stated.

This judicial battle is also reflective of broader national trends, with issues such as abortion and labor rights at the forefront. Crawford has criticized Schimel’s endorsement of the outdated abortion ban and highlighted her legal work for Planned Parenthood.

Voter turnout for this election could be significantly lower than the previous presidential election, creating an uncertain environment for drawing overarching conclusions on voter sentiments regarding Trump and Musk’s influence. Legal experts warn that if Musk successfully shapes the judiciary in his favor, it could undermine public trust in judicial independence.

Robert Yablon, a law professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, suggested that a strong performance by Crawford might signal a resurgence of liberal voter energy, particularly against Musk’s considerable financial influence. Conversely, a loss for Crawford could discourage Democrats and prompt a reevaluation of strategies moving forward.