In a landmark election that has captured national attention, Wisconsin voters are set to cast their final ballots on Tuesday in an expensive and highly contested race for the state’s Supreme Court. Officially nonpartisan, this judicial election features Dane County Judge Susan Crawford, supported by the Democratic Party, against Waukesha County Judge Brad Schimel, endorsed by Republicans. With over $81 million spent so far, it ranks as the priciest judicial election in U.S. history. This battle is not only pivotal for determining ideological control of Wisconsin's closely divided high court but also serves as an early indicator of voter sentiment regarding President Trump's administration.
The stakes extend beyond local politics, with figures such as Elon Musk, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, and other prominent political leaders lending their support to various sides. The outcome could influence key decisions on issues like abortion rights, congressional redistricting, union power, and voting regulations. Liberals currently hold a 4-3 majority on the court, making this election critical for maintaining or altering that balance.
Early voting numbers suggest a significant increase in participation compared to previous years, with nearly 645,000 advance ballots returned by Monday morning—a 40% rise from last year's record-setting turnout. Milwaukee and Dane counties, strongholds for Democrats, account for about one-third of these early votes, aligning with their share from the prior election cycle. However, the Milwaukee suburbs, known as WOW counties (Waukesha, Ozaukee, and Washington), have contributed 19% of early ballots, slightly surpassing their previous contribution. Despite favorable early voting trends for Crawford, many anticipate Election Day itself will be decisive, potentially allowing Schimel to narrow any existing gaps.
Elon Musk, billionaire entrepreneur and ally of President Trump, has actively campaigned for Schimel, including hosting events where he promised financial rewards to participants. His involvement sparked controversy when sued over these promises, though the state Supreme Court declined to intervene. Interestingly, five out of seven sitting justices have publicly backed candidates in this race—liberals supporting Crawford and conservatives endorsing Schimel, who proudly donned a "Make America Great Again" hat during recent campaigning.
As polls close at 8 p.m. local time on Tuesday, all eyes remain on Wisconsin to see how its electorate responds amidst heightened tensions and unprecedented spending. The results promise profound implications both within the state and across broader American political landscapes, signaling potential shifts in legal precedents and public opinion alike.