Wisconsin Supreme Court Race Takes Center Stage in High-Stakes Debate
The Wisconsin Supreme Court race is heating up as candidates Judge Brad Schimel and Judge Susan Crawford prepare to face off in their only scheduled debate before the April 1 election. This contest is not just about who will sit on the bench; it has far-reaching implications for the ideological balance of the court and the future of key issues like abortion, union rights, and voting laws. The outcome of this race will determine whether the court continues its current liberal majority or shifts back to conservative control, a pivot that could resonate deeply in a state that remains a crucial battleground in presidential elections.
Abortion Rights: A Central Issue in the Race
Abortion rights have emerged as a defining theme in this high-stakes race. Judge Susan Crawford, backed by Democrats and organizations like Planned Parenthood, has been a vocal advocate for reproductive rights. She has criticized the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and has highlighted her experience representing clients in abortion-related cases during her time in private practice. On the other hand, Judge Brad Schimel, a former Republican attorney general, has faced scrutiny for his opposition to abortion. He has stated that an 1849 state law banning abortions remains valid and that the state constitution does not grant a right to abortion. Both candidates insist that their personal views on the matter will not influence their judicial decisions, but the stark contrast in their positions has become a focal point of the campaign.
Union Rights and Voting Laws: A Legacy of Division
The debate over union rights and voting laws adds another layer of complexity to this race. Judge Susan Crawford has a history of challenging laws that restrict collective bargaining for public workers, notably the controversial Act 10, which was a hallmark of former Republican Governor Scott Walker’s tenure. Crawford’s efforts to overturn the law, which exempted police and firefighter unions, reflect her stance on labor rights. Judge Brad Schimel, during his time as attorney general, defended Act 10 and opposed extending its restrictions to police and firefighter unions. Additionally, Crawford’s past legal challenges to Wisconsin’s voter ID law, though unsuccessful, highlight her commitment to voting rights. The voter ID law’s potential enshrinement in the state constitution has become a contentious issue, with Republicans aiming to make it harder to repeal.
Justice and Accountability: Handling of Sexual Assault Evidence
The handling of sexual assault evidence kits has become a significant point of contention between the two candidates. Judge Susan Crawford and her supporters have criticized Judge Brad Schimel for his handling of the backlog of untested sexual assault kits during his tenure as attorney general. Schimel has defended his approach, explaining that the process was delayed due to the need for inventorying kits and the challenges of finding private labs to conduct the tests. The backlog was eventually cleared in 2019, a year after Schimel left office. This issue underscores the broader debate over accountability and efficiency in the justice system, with both candidates aiming to convince voters of their commitment to addressing such critical matters.
Crime and Public Safety: A Battle of Credentials
Crime has become a central theme in the race, with both candidates seeking to portray themselves as tougher on crime. Judge Brad Schimel, with his background as a prosecutor and endorsements from law enforcement groups, has positioned himself as a strong advocate for public safety. His campaign has highlighted his experience as the Waukesha County district attorney and the support he has received from a majority of the state’s county sheriffs and police associations. Judge Susan Crawford, who worked as a prosecutor in the attorney general’s office under a Democrat, has also emphasized her law enforcement credentials, earning endorsements from judges and sheriffs in key counties. Both candidates are eager to convince voters that they are the better choice when it comes to keeping communities safe.
Money and Influence: National Attention and Donations
The Wisconsin Supreme Court race has drawn national attention, with significant financial support pouring in from across the country. Judge Brad Schimel has benefited from millions of dollars in spending by groups funded by Elon Musk, drawing criticism from opponents who argue that such influence undermines the integrity of the judiciary. Judge Susan Crawford has also received substantial support, including donations from prominent Democrats like George Soros and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, though the scale of these contributions has not matched Musk’s spending. The influx of national money highlights the high stakes of this race, as control of the court could have implications for abortion rights, union policies, and voting laws in Wisconsin. The involvement of high-profile figures like Donald Trump Jr., who plans to co-host a town hall event for Schimel, further amplifies the race’s significance in the national political landscape. As the debate approaches, both candidates aim to sway undecided voters and make their case for why they are the best fit to serve on the state’s highest court.
