In an unprecedented and fiercely contested election, Judge Susan Crawford has emerged victorious over Judge Brad Schimel for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court. This election not only maintained the court’s 4-3 liberal majority but also set a new benchmark as the most expensive judicial race in U.S. history, with expenditures nearing $100 million. A significant portion of this funding came from high-profile out-of-state donors, most notably tech billionaire Elon Musk, whose substantial financial backing of Schimel ultimately fell short.​

Elon Musk’s Involvement and Financial Influence

Elon Musk, serving as a senior advisor to President Donald Trump at the time, played a pivotal role in this election by contributing over $25 million to support conservative candidate Brad Schimel. Musk’s involvement was part of a broader strategy to influence key judicial positions that could impact national policies. Despite this substantial investment, the election results did not align with Musk’s objectives, highlighting the complexities and uncertainties inherent in political financing. ​

Record-Breaking Campaign Expenditures

The 2025 Wisconsin Supreme Court election shattered previous records, with total spending approaching $100 million. This surge in financial contributions was fueled by both in-state and out-of-state donors, underscoring the national significance attributed to this judicial seat. The influx of funds from figures like Musk sparked debates about the influence of money in judicial elections and raised questions about the integrity and impartiality of the judicial system. ​

Implications of Crawford’s Victory

Susan Crawford’s decisive win, with approximately 55.12% of the vote compared to Schimel’s 44.88%, ensures the continuation of a liberal majority on the Wisconsin Supreme Court. This outcome is poised to have far-reaching implications on several critical issues, including abortion rights, labor laws, and legislative redistricting within the state. Crawford’s victory is perceived as a reflection of Wisconsin voters’ commitment to maintaining judicial independence and resisting external influences. ​

Reactions and Statements

In her victory speech, Crawford emphasized the electorate’s dedication to preserving democratic processes, stating, “Today Wisconsinites fended off an unprecedented attack on our democracy, our fair elections, and our Supreme Court.” This sentiment was echoed by various political analysts who viewed the election as a critical juncture in safeguarding judicial integrity. ​

The 2025 Wisconsin Supreme Court election serves as a landmark event, not only due to its record-breaking expenditures but also because of the spotlight it cast on the influence of wealthy individuals in judicial races. Elon Musk’s substantial financial involvement and subsequent failure to secure a victory underscore the unpredictable nature of electoral politics and the resilience of democratic institutions against external financial pressures. As the dust settles, the focus now shifts to how the court’s composition will influence pivotal legal decisions in Wisconsin’s future.

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