Congratulations Susan Crawford on winning your campaign for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court. She went on to win easily against former Republican attorney general Brad Schimel. Democrats portrayed the April 4, 2023 election as a referendum. Perhaps most importantly, they remind us of the power of celebrity boosters such as Elon Musk and Donald Trump to bend state politics to their whims.
As her opponent, former tech billionaire Elon Musk, poured over $20 million into the race with groups he controlled. The contest ended up costing over $80 million. This blew past the old record of just over $51 million and established this race as the most expensive judicial election in American history.
Crawford’s victory ensures that Wisconsin Supreme Court will remain a 4-3 ideological majority in favor of liberals. This move, if it happens, would be tremendously impactful. The court is about to hear cases that could result in redrawing the state’s eight GOP-favoring congressional districts.
Crawford’s first statement following the heavy election defeat was a longer statement accusing gender and race. She articulated her excitement to move from campaigning to serving on the bench.
“Growing up in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, I never thought I would be taking on the richest man in the world for justice,” – Susan Crawford
She pledged to “deliver fair and impartial decisions” as a member of the court, highlighting her commitment to judicial integrity.
Schimel had already conceded the race on a phone call to Crawford before speaking to his supporters. He knew how intense the competition would be in that race. He and his team didn’t leave anything on the field was the proud declaration of all their hard work.
The election witnessed significant voter turnout enthusiasm in Milwaukee, with polling locations experiencing “historic turnout.” Those issues came to a head when seven gardens ran out of ballots during rush hour voting times. This debacle prompted legitimate alarm about their preparedness for the election.
The contest inspired rousing debates on the issue of campaign financing. It shined a powerful new light on the way rich elites rig the electoral system in their favor. Jeannine Ramsey, a Milwaukee resident and Fix Our Streets Coalition member, spoke out against Musk’s financial meddling in the race.
“I think it’s shameful that Elon Musk can come here and spend millions of dollars and try to bribe the citizens,” – Jeannine Ramsey
She voiced her displeasure at Musk’s participation. She contended that because he doesn’t live in Wisconsin, he should not have the ability to affect its elections.
Unfortunately, the consequences of this election stretch far outside the state capitol. Ben Wikler, chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin, made clear how high-profile and important this race would be. He thinks it creates a strong precedent for future electoral playbooks aimed at flipping legislative seats.
“The hard work of reaching the voters who pay the least attention to politics is going to take years for Democrats to build that kind of communications strength that can puncture the Republican propaganda bubble,” – Wikler
He boldly promised that this winner’s circle will produce winners on the elections to come for Congress. It might just improve the working lives of statehouse offices.
As discussions unfold regarding potential changes to Wisconsin’s congressional districts, many will be watching how Crawford’s leadership on the Supreme Court will influence these crucial decisions moving forward.
Ken Martin, chair of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, weighed in on the broader implications of wealthy donors in local elections.
“Stay out of our elections and stay away from our courts,” – Ken Martin
With the election behind them, many are understandably anxious to see how Crawford will keep her commitment to being above reproach, impartial and fair. Her role on the court is especially important, considering how profoundly it shapes state law and policy.