Democratic-Backed Judge Wins Wisconsin Supreme Court Race, Defying Musk-Funded Campaign
In a major political upset, Susan Crawford, a Democratic-backed judge, has won a pivotal seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court, defeating conservative candidate Brad Schimel in what has become the most expensive judicial election in U.S. history.
With 75% of the vote counted, Crawford was leading with 55% to Schimel’s 45%, according to CBS projections. The win secures a 4-3 liberal majority on the state’s highest court, preserving Democratic influence ahead of key decisions on abortion rights, redistricting, and voter laws.
Musk’s $20 Million Gamble Falls Flat
The race drew national attention not only for its stakes but also for the unprecedented role of billionaire Elon Musk, a close adviser to President Donald Trump. Musk funneled $20 million into Schimel’s campaign through events and personal giveaways, including handing out $1 million cheques to rallygoers and offering $50 incentives for voters to show support at polling sites.
Despite the heavy spending, Crawford’s campaign, backed by progressive donors like George Soros, Gov. JB Pritzker, and LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, held strong.
“This was a referendum not just on the court, but on whether billionaires can buy democracy,” said one local voter in Milwaukee.
High Stakes and Record Turnout
Turnout in Wisconsin’s liberal strongholds surged, with Milwaukee reporting a ballot shortage due to the historic voter engagement. The race was viewed as a litmus test for 2026 midterms and a potential harbinger for the 2028 presidential election.
Crawford, a Dane County judge and former Planned Parenthood attorney, campaigned on defending abortion rights and opposed a voter ID constitutional amendment passed in the same election.
Schimel, a former GOP attorney general, was heavily endorsed by Trump, who labeled Crawford a “DISASTER for Wisconsin” on Truth Social. Musk echoed Trump’s sentiments, describing the contest as crucial to maintaining Republican influence in Congress.
Court to Rule on Redistricting and Abortion
Wisconsin’s Supreme Court will likely decide on challenges to the state’s congressional district maps, which currently favor Republicans in six of eight House seats. With a liberal majority now secured, Democrats are expected to push for fairer redistricting ahead of the 2026 midterms.
The court is also expected to revisit abortion laws, with Crawford’s win marking a potential turning point in legal battles over reproductive rights in the post-Roe era.
Republican Wins in Florida Offer Mixed Night
While Democrats celebrated victory in Wisconsin, Trump’s GOP allies held two key House seats in Florida, with Jimmy Patronis and Randy Fine winning their races. The Florida results offered some consolation to conservatives, reinforcing the political divide ahead of next year’s midterms.
Conclusion: A Cautionary Tale for Megadonors?
For Musk, the Wisconsin defeat represents a high-profile misfire in his growing involvement in U.S. politics. Despite lavish spending and grassroots mobilization efforts, voters ultimately rejected the notion of billionaire influence deciding judicial outcomes.
“This is what democracy looks like,” said one voter. “No amount of money should decide our rights.”
