First major election of 2025 turns into referendum on Trump, Musk
Voters in Wisconsin are heading to the polls on Tuesday to determine the majority on the state’s supreme court, a decision that could have far-reaching implications on crucial issues such as congressional redistricting, voting rights, labor rights, and abortion. The race has become the most expensive judicial election in the nation’s history, turning into a battle between conservatives and liberals and a referendum on President Donald Trump’s policies during his second term in the White House.
One of the key players in this high-stakes election is billionaire Elon Musk, the world’s richest person and a top donor to President Trump. Musk, who heads Tesla and SpaceX, has poured roughly $20 million into the race in support of Brad Schimel, the conservative-leaning candidate and former state attorney general. Musk made headlines by handing out $1 million checks to Wisconsin voters who had already cast their ballots and signed a petition to stop “activist judges.”
Despite legal challenges to his actions, Musk defended his massive donations, stating that it was a strategic move to garner media attention and promote the importance of the election to the Trump agenda. He emphasized that the outcome of the race would have a significant impact on the future of civilization.
Schimel, who has received support from Musk and other conservative mega-donors, has highlighted the need to restore objectivity to the Wisconsin Supreme Court. He has embraced Trump’s endorsement and campaigned on protecting the president’s agenda, even sporting a “Make America Great Again” hat at campaign stops.
On the other side of the race is Susan Crawford, a liberal-leaning candidate who has seen a surge in fundraising from supporters eager to resist Trump and the GOP. Crawford has criticized Musk’s influence in the election, accusing him of trying to buy a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court. She has also received financial backing from prominent progressive donors like George Soros and Gov. JB Pritzker of Illinois.
The outcome of the election will determine whether the court remains under liberal control or shifts to a conservative majority. Both candidates have brought in high-profile surrogates, such as Sen. Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump Jr., to rally support in the final stretch of the campaign.
Early voting turnout has been significantly higher than in previous elections, indicating a high level of engagement among Wisconsin voters. The race has attracted national attention due to its potential impact on key issues and the significant financial investments from outside groups.
As voters head to the polls on Tuesday, the results of the Wisconsin Supreme Court election are poised to shape the future of the state and have broader implications for the nation. The battle between conservatives and liberals, fueled by big money and high-profile endorsements, underscores the importance of judicial elections in shaping policy and protecting fundamental rights and freedoms.
