MADISON, Wis. — A former Capitol police officer, Harry Dunn, who was vocal in defending the U.S. Capitol during the January 6, 2021, riots, publicly criticized Republican candidate Brad Schimel for the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Dunn accused Schimel of “clearly playing both sides” regarding the issue of pardoning individuals involved in the Capitol attack.
Dunn called on Schimel to unequivocally denounce former President Donald Trump’s decision to pardon nearly 1,500 individuals convicted for their actions during the riot. At a news conference held at the Wisconsin Capitol, Dunn stated, “You can’t support an individual that believes it’s OK to pardon people who attack police officers. You can’t support that and also say you claim to back the blue.”
This controversy arose after Schimel, a former Wisconsin attorney general and current Waukesha County Circuit Court judge, voiced his belief that some non-violent offenders did not receive a “fair shake” from the courts during a recent conservative radio interview. On Monday, when questioned about Trump’s pardons, Schimel indicated he doesn’t object to the president exercising his power but remarked, “Anyone convicted of assaulting law enforcement should serve their full sentence.” Dunn, however, interpreted this stance as an inconsistency.
“If you believe that the individuals who attacked police officers should serve their sentence, then the only response to Donald Trump’s pardons should be that they’re wrong,” Dunn elaborated, suggesting Schimel’s position lacked clarity.
While the Schimel campaign did not specifically respond to Dunn’s statements, Schimel reiterated that “attacking our men and women in uniform is never acceptable.” Dunn’s involvement has garnered national attention, showcasing how critical the race has become in a state that previously favored Trump in elections. The 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court race set a record for campaign spending, with expectations that this year’s competition will surpass it.
The outcome of the race holds significant implications for Wisconsin’s highest court, determining whether it will remain under liberal control or shift back to conservative hands after a 15-year span of conservative dominance prior to 2023. As this contest unfolds, endorsements are becoming pivotal. Schimel boasts support from 52 of the state’s 72 current county sheriffs, the Milwaukee Police Association, and the Waukesha County Police Chiefs Association, along with endorsements from 18 retired county sheriffs.
In contrast, Schimel’s opponent, Dane County Circuit Judge Susan Crawford, does not have law enforcement endorsements. However, she does receive backing from the state teachers’ union and roughly 100 current judges, which includes all four liberal justices currently serving on the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Major issues at stake in this election include abortion rights, congressional redistricting, election laws, and union rights.
The election is scheduled for April 1, and as the race heats up, both candidates are making their cases to the electorate.
