Liberal Judge Susan Crawford has been elected to the Wisconsin Supreme Court, defeating conservative Judge Brad Schimel in the most expensive supreme court race in U.S. history.
Crawford’s win solidifies a liberal majority on the state’s highest court, a shift poised to influence Wisconsin’s legal landscape for years to come. At the time of publication Crawford had a double digit lead with the majority of votes counted.
The election garnered national attention due to its potential impact on pivotal issues such as abortion rights, redistricting, and the legalization of cannabis. Crawford’s victory ensures that liberals maintain control of the seven-member court, a balance that could be decisive in upcoming rulings.
One of the most pressing matters before the court is the validity of Wisconsin’s 1849 abortion ban. Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade, this 175-year-old law, which criminalizes most abortions, has been under scrutiny. The court’s recent oral arguments suggest a skepticism toward upholding the ban, indicating that the liberal majority may lean toward protecting abortion rights in the state.
Redistricting is another critical issue on the docket. Wisconsin’s legislative maps have faced legal challenges alleging partisan gerrymandering. With the new composition of the court, there’s potential for revisiting these maps to ensure fair representation, a move that could reshape the state’s political dynamics.
Furthermore, the court could end up addressing the legalization of cannabis in the coming years. Governor Tony Evers has included legalization in his recent budget proposal, and the issue has gained growing bipartisan support. If the state does legalize, it’s possible the court could end up hearing a case on whether or not the state has the authority to allow sales of a federally illegal substance.
The election was marked by unprecedented spending, with total expenditures projected to reach $100 million, making it the most expensive judicial race in U.S. history. Notably, tech billionaire Elon Musk’s involvement drew significant attention, as he donated an estimated tens of millions of dollars.
Crawford, a Dane County Circuit Court judge since 2018, has a background in championing labor unions, women’s rights, voting rights, and public education.
