This event is not an isolated occurrence; both candidates in the nonpartisan election have participated in various politically charged gatherings. They have also accepted significant funding from partisan affiliations, with both the Democratic and Republican parties actively seeking to control the state’s Supreme Court.
In this upcoming election on April 1, Waukesha County Judge Brad Schimel, a former attorney general affiliated with the Republican party, will face off against liberal Dane County Circuit Judge Susan Crawford. The outcome will decide if the current 4-3 majority held by liberals on the Wisconsin Supreme Court is preserved or if it shifts toward conservative dominance.
The judicial contest of 2023 was noted as the most expensive in U.S. history, and early indications suggest that this year’s election may surpass that financial threshold. It has already attracted the attention of significant figures, including Elon Musk, known for his strong support of former President Trump.
The possibility of reshaping Wisconsin’s congressional district boundaries is one of several key issues that the state court may address, alongside matters such as abortion rights, election regulations, and labor rights. In December 2023, the liberal-led court ordered the creation of new legislative maps, which helped Democrats secure additional seats in November’s elections.
Now, Democratic leaders are optimistic that the court will be able to adjust congressional districts. Earlier this March, however, the Supreme Court declined to hear a case from Democrats concerning congressional redistricting.
On Wednesday, the Wisconsin Republican Party accused Judge Crawford of “sacrificing two of Wisconsin’s congressional seats” due to her involvement in the briefing organized by the liberal group Focus for Democracy. Invitations to the event, held on January 13, indicated it was a “opportunity to position two additional House seats for the 2026 elections.”
The New York Times covered this briefing, revealing that it was put together by Reid Hoffman, a billionaire donor with strong ties to the Democratic Party. Present at the event alongside Crawford was Wisconsin Democratic Party Chair Ben Wikler, who is also running for chair of the Democratic National Committee.
Brian Schimming, the chairman of the Wisconsin Republican Party, disparaged Crawford’s actions, suggesting her remarks indicated a willingness to be influenced by out-of-state wealth. He stated, “In an effort to lure external billionaires, Susan Crawford revealed her true intentions: she is pleading to be financially supported.”
Meanwhile, Schimel’s campaign criticized Crawford for utilizing the Supreme Court position as a political tool aimed at leveraging advantages for liberal elites outside Wisconsin. They claimed, “Susan Crawford has shown she is willing to do anything for power, even offering congressional seats in exchange for her campaign’s backing.”
Crawford’s campaign spokesperson, Derrick Honeyman, defended her, asserting that she is striving to be a “fair, impartial, and reasonable judge.” He emphasized that she has never commented on congressional redistricting, explaining her brief involvement in the call was solely to discuss her qualifications and objectives.
Honeyman further highlighted Schimel’s participation in partisan events, including a gala for President Trump and engagements with various conservative groups across the state. Schimel anticipates that conservative organizations will invest between $10 million and $15 million into the upcoming race.
The Wisconsin Democratic Party has contributed $1 million to support Crawford’s campaign. Last year, the party spent considerable funds in an unsuccessful attempt to alter two of the state’s congressional districts.
Democrats have their sights set on the 1st Congressional District in southeast Wisconsin, currently represented by Republican Rep. Bryan Steil, as well as the 3rd Congressional District in western Wisconsin, held by Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden.
The article has been updated to clarify that the event attended by Crawford was a briefing with Democratic donors rather than a fundraising initiative.
