In a contentious debate on Wednesday, the focus turned to abortion rights and the involvement of influential billionaires Elon Musk and George Soros in backing candidates for the Wisconsin Supreme Court race. This election, slated for April 1, will determine the balance of conservative and liberal influence in Wisconsin’s highest court, which faces looming decisions on topics like abortion, public sector unions, voting protocols, and congressional district mapping.
This race is being perceived as an early indicator of political dynamics during President Donald Trump’s administration in Wisconsin, a pivotal swing state. Competing in the election are Republican-supported Waukesha County Circuit Judge Brad Schimel, a former attorney general, and Democratic-endorsed Dane County Circuit Judge Susan Crawford.
A primary issue presented was Wisconsin’s 1849 abortion law, which nearly bans abortions and is currently under review by the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Schimel, who has backing from anti-abortion organizations, expressed belief that although the law was validly passed, it does not reflect the current desires of Wisconsin residents. He argued that decisions on abortion rights should be left to the voters and not the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, Crawford did not express a position on the pending case, but she noted her prior support for Planned Parenthood in related lawsuits and criticized the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, calling the issue crucial in the race.
Discussion also turned to campaign contributions from billionaires Musk and Soros. Crawford accused Musk, an ally of Trump, of heavily influencing Schimel’s campaign through more than $10 million spent on advertising and canvassing. She pointed out the timing of Musk’s financial involvement, occurring shortly after his company, Tesla, pursued legal action against Wisconsin. Schimel maintained that he has no control over external contributions or their claims and emphasized his commitment to enforcing the law impartially, regardless of Trump’s influence.
Crawford herself has received notable support from Democratic figures like Soros and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, with a total contribution to her campaign of $1.5 million. Schimel disparaged Soros as a troubling endorsement partner. Crawford distinguished her acceptance of support by stressing she had not made any promises in return.
Union rights were another topic of debate. Crawford previously attempted to challenge Wisconsin’s Act 10, law that curtailed collective bargaining for public workers. She suggested she might recuse herself from related cases, assuming they involve issues she has litigated. Schimel, as former attorney general, defended Act 10 and argued against expanding its constraints to police and firefighter unions, which were initially exempt. He did not indicate if he would step aside from potential future challenges to Act 10.
Regarding Wisconsin’s voter ID law, which could be constitutionally cemented through an upcoming ballot measure, Schimel voiced support. Crawford, who previously opposed the law, chose not to disclose her voting intention for the amendment.
Finally, the issue of congressional redistricting, anticipated to reach the court, was addressed. Crawford came under scrutiny for appearing at a donor meeting suggested to enhance Democratic congressional opportunities, although she claimed the briefing did not focus on redistricting. Schimel expressed skepticism over her explanation.
Accordingly, this legal and political contest highlights broader national debates and the intersection of judicial impartiality, indicating significant state direction amidst wider national currents.