WI Supreme Court race rife with gerrymandering, radicalism, bench-buying claims
The Wisconsin Supreme Court race is heating up as Republicans and Democrats gear up for a nationally watched and mega-moneyed election. The battle lines have been drawn, with potential nationwide implications on the horizon. While officially nonpartisan, the candidates are facing off in what could be a game-changing election.
Republicans are sounding the alarm over Susan Crawford, the judge considered to be the Democrats’ choice in the race. They warn that Crawford is likely to support efforts that could impact future redistricting maps, potentially putting two U.S. House Republicans at risk. They also criticize Crawford for what they see as a willingness to “legislate from the bench.”
On the other side, Wisconsin Democrats are pushing back against criticisms after receiving a significant donation from Hungarian-American financier George Soros. The infusion of funds has boosted Crawford’s campaign, leading to accusations of being “Soros’ ideal investment.” The Democrats point out that Brad Schimel, the Republican candidate and former Wisconsin Attorney General, also has deep-pocketed donors like Elon Musk in his corner.
The race has attracted attention from high-profile donors on both sides, with Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, the Uihlein family, Reid Hoffman, and Joe Ricketts among those contributing to the campaigns. Donald Trump Jr. has even shown support for Schimel, highlighting the national interest in this local election.
Republicans are painting Crawford as “dangerously liberal,” citing her support from Soros, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, and activist groups advocating for controversial issues like gender-transition surgeries for minors and transgender sports participation. They accuse Crawford of making promises to turn two Republican congressional seats into Democratic ones if elected to the Supreme Court.
Schimel, on the other hand, vows to uphold the law and avoid judicial activism. He criticizes Crawford for allegedly making partisan promises and warns that a liberal majority on the court could lead to significant changes in Wisconsin’s legal landscape. He highlights his experience as the state’s attorney general as his main qualification for the role.
As the election approaches, tensions are running high, with both candidates trading accusations and attacks. Crawford’s campaign has targeted Schimel over his handling of rape kits and his alleged ties to corrupt practices. Meanwhile, Schimel defends his record and warns of the consequences of a liberal majority on the court.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court election on April 1 is shaping up to be a closely watched and highly contested race. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for the state and beyond. Both candidates are pulling out all the stops to secure victory, with national figures and big donors getting involved in the fray. The people of Wisconsin will have a crucial decision to make, and the result could set the course for the state’s legal system for years to come.
