In a high-stakes and record-breaking judicial race, Wisconsin voters have elected Democratic-backed Judge Susan Crawford to the state’s Supreme Court, maintaining the court’s 4-3 liberal majority. 

The election, which became the most expensive judicial contest in US history, saw over $100 million in spending, including $20 million from billionaire Elon Musk, a key fundraiser for conservative candidate Brad Schimel.

With around 75% of the votes counted, Crawford secured approximately 55% of the vote, defeating Schimel’s 45%, according to projections from CBS. 

Her victory is expected to have significant political implications, potentially influencing the balance of power in Congress.

A former private attorney for Planned Parenthood, Crawford campaigned in support of abortion rights and opposed a Republican-backed amendment requiring voter ID laws to be enshrined in the state constitution. 

Despite already existing ID requirements, the constitutional change makes it more difficult to reverse such laws in the future.

The election was seen as a test of Musk’s political influence, as he personally traveled to Wisconsin, distributing millions to voters supporting conservative causes. His financial backing drew strong opposition, with many voters expressing concerns about his growing political clout.

Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump, who had endorsed Schimel, suffered a setback in this key swing state. However, he took comfort in Republican victories in two Florida congressional races, reinforcing the party’s slim House majority.

Wisconsin’s Supreme Court is poised to play a crucial role in upcoming legal battles over abortion rights and congressional redistricting ahead of the 2026 Midterms and the 2028 presidential election. 

As Democrats are expected to challenge the current district maps, the court’s decisions could reshape the state’s political landscape for years to come.

Source: BBC