President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk are spearheading a conservative drive to elect Republican Brad Schimel in Wisconsin’s upcoming Supreme Court race. With control of the state’s highest court at stake, conservatives nationwide recognize the election’s importance in solidifying key policy victories.
Schimel faces Judge Susan Crawford, supported by prominent Democrats including former President Barack Obama. The winner will hold the decisive vote on major state issues, from abortion restrictions to collective bargaining laws, directly influencing the direction of Wisconsin politics for years to come.
In his endorsement, Trump called Crawford a “Radical Left Liberal,” making clear his support for Schimel and emphasizing the critical national implications of this state-level contest. Trump’s endorsement highlights the election as part of a broader conservative strategy to strengthen state-level victories.
Elon Musk, whose political presence has grown increasingly prominent, is deeply involved in Schimel’s campaign through America PAC. Musk recently announced plans to distribute million-dollar payments to voters who signed a petition against activist judges, a move swiftly challenged in court by Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul.
Democrats seized upon Musk’s actions, using the controversy to portray Schimel as overly reliant on the billionaire. Campaign ads accuse Musk of advocating policies harmful to Social Security and public education, attempting to tie Schimel closely to Musk’s controversial agenda.
Schimel himself has carefully avoided engaging directly with Musk’s disputed giveaways. When asked about the legality of Musk’s plans, Schimel sidestepped, stating only that he is not involved in Musk’s legal matters, reinforcing his focus solely on the Supreme Court race.
Conservatives see this election as vital for preserving laws like Act 10, enacted under former Gov. Scott Walker. Act 10 reduced mandatory union fees paid by public-sector employees, cutting a significant source of funding for Democratic campaigns. Crawford has openly opposed Act 10, further energizing conservative voters.
With campaign spending topping previous records, liberal donors including Soros and Pritzker have matched Musk’s heavy financial commitments. The national interest and high-profile endorsements underscore how significant this Wisconsin race has become.
