Wisconsin Supreme Court Race Draws High-Profile Support and Controversy
The race for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court has become a focal point for political and financial influence, drawing attention from prominent figures and substantial financial backing. Brad Schimel, endorsed by Republicans and supported by entrepreneur Elon Musk, has expressed concerns over his opponent, Susan Crawford, who benefits from donations by liberal philanthropist George Soros.
Schimel stated, “I don’t think these two things compare,” highlighting his belief in the disparity between the types of support each candidate is receiving. The upcoming election on April 1 is set to determine whether liberals can hold onto their 4-3 majority in the court, which is expected to address significant issues such as abortion, union rights, election law, and congressional redistricting.
As funds pour in from both political parties, Schimel and Crawford emphasize their commitment to judicial independence, despite each suggesting that financial support could sway their opponent. Schimel remarked, “I don’t have any agenda that I’m working alongside anyone,” and Crawford echoed similar sentiments, stating she has “never made any promises” to her donors.
Musk’s America PAC has contributed $1 million to support Schimel, a former Republican attorney general and current Waukesha County judge. Additionally, Musk-backed Building America’s Future is spending $1.6 million on ads against Crawford. Schimel also received nearly $1.7 million from the state Republican Party.
Crawford, a Dane County circuit judge, benefits from $3 million in funding from the state Democratic Party, which includes $1 million from Soros and $500,000 from Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker. Schimel criticized Soros’s involvement, citing concerns over his support for reducing police funding.
In response, Crawford’s spokesperson Derrick Honeyman claimed Musk’s financial involvement indicates Schimel is “for sale.” Honeyman stated, “Elon Musk saw an opportunity in Brad Schimel and it’s why he’s laying down millions of dollars to buy him off.”
Controversy also surrounds claims that Crawford’s participation in an event with Democratic donors, described as a “chance to put two more House seats in play,” suggests her commitment to redistricting efforts favoring Democrats. Schimel referred to this as “pay for play,” though Honeyman stated Crawford has made no public or private comments on redistricting.
With large donations from political parties and billionaires, questions arise about potential recusals from cases involving their donors. Notably, Tesla, Musk’s company, has a pending lawsuit in Wisconsin that could be decided by the state Supreme Court. Schimel has not committed to recusal, stating he is unaware of the lawsuit details and would approach it like any other case. Crawford has given similar responses regarding cases involving her backers.
