Conservatives are ramping up their efforts nationwide ahead of the crucial Wisconsin Supreme Court election on April 1. With the court evenly divided, the race between Republican Brad Schimel and Democrat-backed Susan Crawford has become a top priority for conservative leaders, including President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk.
Trump, who strongly endorsed Schimel, has emphasized the stakes for conservatives nationwide. He warned voters that a victory by Crawford would mean the conservative movement he leads would “bypass Wisconsin,” limiting conservative gains and threatening hard-fought policy victories.
The contest has drawn national attention partly due to Musk’s unprecedented involvement. The Tesla CEO has committed tens of millions of dollars supporting Schimel through his America PAC, igniting Democratic backlash. Musk’s plan to personally distribute two $1 million checks this weekend to Wisconsin voters who signed petitions opposing activist judges prompted a legal response from Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul, who argues Musk’s giveaways violate state election law.
While Musk’s involvement has energized conservatives, Democrats have seized the opportunity to portray Schimel as beholden to Musk’s interests. Ads sponsored by Democratic groups target Musk aggressively, accusing him of proposing cuts to critical programs such as Social Security and public education, and tying Schimel closely to those unpopular policies.
Schimel himself has remained cautious regarding Musk’s giveaway strategy. When questioned by media about Musk’s petition offer, he stated, “I don’t get involved in those legal battles,” distancing himself publicly even though he expressed personal agreement with the petition’s purpose.
Act 10, a significant conservative legislative win that restricted public unions’ bargaining power and ended mandatory dues payments from state employees, remains a major issue in this election. Crawford, supported by prominent Democrats including former President Barack Obama, has made clear her intent to reverse Act 10, reinforcing conservatives’ argument that public-sector unions have abused taxpayer resources.
Former President Obama stepped into the Wisconsin race directly, endorsing Crawford and positioning her candidacy as necessary to defend Wisconsinites’ rights. His involvement highlights the broader political implications of this judicial election and its potential effects on future elections nationwide.
Record-breaking election spending has emphasized the importance both parties place on the outcome. Billionaires George Soros and JB Pritzker have mirrored Musk’s involvement, pouring millions into Crawford’s campaign. Wisconsin’s court battle has become a critical national bellwether as the April 1 election approaches.
