Radical Liberal Judge Wins Wisconsin Supreme Court Race in Nation’s Most Expensive Judicial Election

In a closely watched and fiercely contested race, far-left Dane County Judge Susan Crawford has defeated conservative challenger Brad Schimel in Wisconsin’s Supreme Court election, allowing Democrats to maintain their grip on the state’s highest court and setting the stage for aggressive left-wing rulings on key state issues.

Crawford’s win ensures the court remains under liberal control through at least 2028, giving Democrats a crucial judicial weapon in the swing state just months ahead of the 2026 midterms and the 2028 presidential race.

$100 Million Power Grab

The election shattered records, becoming the most expensive judicial race in American history, with nearly $100 million spent between both sides. Conservative candidate Brad Schimel, a former attorney general and respected constitutionalist, had the backing of President Donald Trump and major support from Elon Musk, whose political action committees poured more than $25 million into the race.

But leftist dark money also flooded into the state. Crawford’s campaign was bankrolled by mega-donors like George Soros and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, making clear the national importance Democrats placed on keeping this seat.

What’s at Stake?

Crawford’s victory could have enormous consequences. The Wisconsin Supreme Court is now expected to revisit:

• Redistricting cases, with the Left aiming to redraw maps to favor Democrats

• Abortion laws, potentially striking down pro-life protections still in place

• Union power, threatening to reverse conservative reforms enacted under Scott Walker

• Election laws, including challenges to voter ID and ballot security measures

While Schimel ran on a platform of judicial restraint, law and order, and constitutional integrity, Crawford’s backers openly praised her as a judge who will deliver “progressive results” from the bench.

A Silver Lining: Voter ID Amendment Passes

Despite the setback in the court race, Wisconsin voters approved a constitutional amendment requiring photo ID for all voters, a major win for election integrity. Backed by both Trump and Musk, the measure makes it harder for leftist judges or bureaucrats to weaken voter ID laws in the future.

The Fight Isn’t Over

While Democrats celebrate a judicial victory bought with tens of millions in out-of-state cash, conservatives are already regrouping. Wisconsin remains a battleground, and with voter ID now enshrined in the state constitution, the GOP has a firm foundation to build on.

As one GOP strategist put it:
“They may have bought a seat—but they didn’t buy the voters.”