The Courts Are Not For Sale: Judge Susan Crawford Wins in Historic Race for Wisconsin State Supreme Court
Record High Voter Turnout Rejected a $25 Million Right-Wing Attack on the Courts
Madison, WI — Yesterday, Judge Susan Crawford defeated MAGA-backed Brad Schimel in the race for Wisconsin’s open state Supreme Court seat. After Elon Musk poured $25 million into Schimel’s campaign — a record-breaking amount of spending that included potentially illegal direct handouts to Schimel voters — Crawford’s win shows that voters realize that a court system that works for everyone and not just billionaires is a reason to head to the polls, and shows that the people can win against unelected, unaccountable billionaires trying to hand-pick MAGA-friendly justices.
United for Democracy Senior Advisor Meagan Hatcher-Mays released the following statement in response:
“Last night, the people of Wisconsin rejected Elon Musk’s attempts to exert his influence over their elections and reaffirmed their control over their judicial system and their democracy. Turnout for this race, in an off-year with no federal candidate on the ballot, was extraordinarily high, which shows that voters realize the importance of showing up to determine the future of the courts.
“Despite yesterday’s historic win, the fact that an unelected billionaire almost installed a MAGA loyalist into a state Supreme Court seat speaks to the need for reform. Let’s not forget that the far-right has made control of the courts — state and federal — a priority for 50 years, and although Musk’s spending was a particularly egregious example, right-wing dark money continues to corrupt our judiciary in quieter ways.
“We cannot rest after last night’s win. Republicans will not take their eye off the courts, and neither can we. Instead, we must use the result of the race as momentum to keep pushing for a fair and just judicial system. When the people come together, they can win against money and power. Celebrate today, but keep working tomorrow.”
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About United for Democracy
United for Democracy is a diverse and growing coalition of more than 100 grassroots organizations, labor unions, and advocates for reproductive rights, gun violence prevention, the environment, workers rights and more, all representing tens of millions of Americans. The new nationwide campaign launched to educate Americans about the impact today’s Supreme Court is having on their lives, freedoms, and democracy — and call on Congress to rein in its unchecked powers.