Liberal wins Wisconsin Supreme Court election in setback for Trump, Musk
In a major political shift, Wisconsin voters have elected Democratic-backed Judge Susan Crawford to the state Supreme Court. This victory solidifies the liberal 4-3 majority on the court, marking a significant moment in the nation’s most expensive judicial election ever.
A Costly Battle and a Big Name in Politics
With over $100 million spent in the campaign, this election wasn’t just about Wisconsin—it had national implications. Conservative candidate Brad Schimel, backed by influential Republican figures, was also supported by billionaire Elon Musk, who funneled a staggering $20 million into the race. However, despite Musk’s deep pockets, Crawford emerged victorious with 55% of the vote against Schimel’s 45%.
Why This Race Mattered
The Wisconsin Supreme Court is set to play a crucial role in upcoming cases involving abortion rights and congressional redistricting. Crawford, a former private lawyer for Planned Parenthood, openly supported abortion rights, making this election particularly significant for progressive policies. Her victory deals a blow to former President Donald Trump, who had strongly supported Schimel, warning that Crawford would be “a disaster for Wisconsin.”
Elon Musk’s Political Influence Tested
This race also tested Musk’s influence in American politics. Known for his outspoken political stances and substantial financial contributions, Musk actively campaigned for Schimel. Reports revealed that Musk not only donated millions but also personally distributed checks to voters pledging support for conservative candidates. He even incentivized voters with $50 payments for taking photos outside polling sites while holding images of Schimel. Despite these efforts, his candidate lost—a rare setback for the billionaire entrepreneur.
Unprecedented Voter Turnout
Milwaukee saw record-breaking voter turnout, leading to ballot shortages in some areas. The high engagement highlighted the electorate’s enthusiasm and underscored Wisconsin’s role as a battleground state. Notably, the state also voted to amend its constitution, solidifying the requirement for voter ID—a policy that Crawford had opposed.
The Road Ahead: A Court That Could Shape the Nation
With the new liberal-leaning court, Wisconsin is poised to challenge existing congressional district maps, a move that could shift the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives. Currently, Republicans hold six of the state’s eight congressional seats, but that could change if Democrats push for redistricting.
Trump’s Mixed Night
While Trump faced disappointment in Wisconsin, his party secured victories elsewhere. In Florida, Republican candidates Jimmy Patronis and Randy Fine retained their congressional seats, reinforcing GOP dominance in the state. Still, the loss in Wisconsin raises questions about Trump’s sway over key swing states heading into the 2026 midterms and the 2028 presidential race.
Final Thoughts
Susan Crawford’s win is more than just a judicial victory—it’s a signal of shifting political tides in Wisconsin. For Musk, it’s a rare defeat in his growing political involvement. And for Trump, it’s a reminder that even his stronghold states aren’t guaranteed wins. With major cases on the horizon, the Wisconsin Supreme Court’s new composition could have ripple effects far beyond the state’s borders.
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