Liberal Candidate Triumphs in Wisconsin Supreme Court Race, Dealing a Setback to Trump and Musk
Susan Crawford has been projected to win a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court, preserving the court's 4-3 liberal majority and delivering a setback to both Elon Musk and former President Donald Trump, according to Decision Desk HQ.
Crawford, a Dane County circuit court judge, defeated conservative Brad Schimel, a former GOP state attorney general. She will replace retiring liberal justice Ann Walsh Bradley.
This election marked a significant test for both political parties since the November elections, with a record-breaking influx of campaign money. Musk’s influence was particularly evident, with his super PAC, America PAC, spending over $12 million to support Schimel. Musk even visited Wisconsin the Sunday before the election, distributing $1 million checks to voters who signed his petition against “activist judges.”
Trump also played a role, repeatedly encouraging voters to support Schimel at the polls.
The loss is a blow to Wisconsin Republicans, who were hoping to maintain their conservative majority after Justice Janet Protasiewicz's victory over conservative Dan Kelly in 2023.
The race, which shattered fundraising records by tens of millions of dollars compared to the 2023 election, garnered national attention. Its outcome was seen as a reflection of Trump’s influence less than three months into his second term, making it a key early referendum on his presidency.
Democrats and Crawford’s campaign capitalized on voter dissatisfaction with Musk and the cuts made under his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The race also came shortly after a scandal involving top Trump administration officials discussing attack plans on Signal, unaware that a journalist had been included in the conversation.
Beyond the national implications, the result will have significant local consequences. Wisconsin’s high court has ruled on several high-profile issues, such as the 2020 election results, state legislative maps, and the use of ballot drop boxes. Future cases, such as those involving the state’s 1849 abortion law and Act 10, which limits collective bargaining for public workers, will be shaped by the court’s composition.
Crawford’s victory is the latest in a series of special election successes for Democrats since November. Earlier this year, the party achieved surprise victories in state Senate special elections in Iowa and Pennsylvania.
Heather Williams, president of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, praised Crawford’s win, saying, “Despite Republicans’ efforts to buy this seat, Wisconsin voters stood up for their values and future. As Trump dismantles essential programs, voters across the country are turning to Democrats who are focused on lowering costs and expanding opportunities.”
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