Musk in Wisconsin

5.3

The Wisconsin Supreme Court election, heavily influenced by Elon Musk's financial backing for conservative candidate Brad Schimel, has become a critical battleground. The outcome could reshape judicial control, impacting key issues like abortion rights and congressional redistricting in Wisconsin.

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The Wisconsin Supreme Court race has emerged as a pivotal event, drawing national attention and significant financial backing, particularly from high-profile figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump. The election, seen as a referendum on Trump's influence and Musk's political ambitions, has witnessed record-breaking campaign spending, with estimates nearing $100 million. This has made it the most expensive judicial race in U.S. history.

Candidates Susan Crawford, a liberal backed by substantial dark money contributions, and Brad Schimel, a conservative supported by Musk's political group, are vying for control of the court, which could impact critical issues such as abortion rights and electoral laws in Wisconsin. Musk's involvement has sparked controversy, particularly after he distributed $1 million checks to voters at a rally, which some critics labeled as a form of bribery. This act, alongside Musk's significant financial contributions to the campaign, has raised questions about the integrity of the electoral process.

Voter turnout has been notably high, with many viewing the election as a crucial test of political sentiment in the state. The outcomes could influence future elections and the direction of the Republican Party, especially as they relate to Trump's agenda. Analysts suggest that the race could serve as a litmus test for Trump's continued influence over the GOP and Musk's growing role in American politics.

As voters head to the polls, the stakes are high, with implications that extend beyond Wisconsin, potentially affecting national politics and the balance of power in the Supreme Court. The race encapsulates the intersection of wealth, politics, and public sentiment in a deeply polarized environment.

Q&A (Auto-generated by AI)

What are the implications of court control?

Control of the Wisconsin Supreme Court is significant as it can influence major state policies, including abortion rights, voting laws, and legislative redistricting. A shift from a liberal to a conservative majority could lead to rulings that align more closely with Republican values, potentially altering the political landscape in Wisconsin and impacting national politics.

How does campaign spending impact elections?

High campaign spending, as seen in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race, often correlates with increased visibility and voter engagement. The record-breaking expenditures, exceeding $100 million, highlight how financial resources can amplify a candidate's message and outreach efforts, ultimately influencing voter decisions and election outcomes.

What role does Musk play in politics?

Elon Musk has emerged as a significant political figure, particularly in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race, where he invested millions to support conservative candidates. His actions, including handing out large checks to voters, illustrate how wealthy individuals can shape political narratives and mobilize voter bases, thereby impacting election results.

How does this race reflect voter sentiment?

The Wisconsin Supreme Court race reflects a polarized electorate, with voters deeply divided along ideological lines. Many view the election as a referendum on Donald Trump's presidency and the influence of billionaires like Musk, indicating broader concerns about governance, representation, and the future direction of state policies.

What historical context surrounds judicial elections?

Judicial elections in the U.S. have evolved to include significant campaign financing, often leading to concerns about impartiality. Historically, states have shifted from appointing judges to electing them, raising questions about the influence of money and politics on judicial independence and the integrity of the legal system.

What are the stakes for Trump's agenda?

The outcome of the Wisconsin Supreme Court race is crucial for Trump's agenda, as a conservative majority could facilitate rulings that align with his policies. This includes potential challenges to abortion rights and voting laws, which are central issues for the Republican Party and could influence legislative actions at the federal level.

How do judicial elections differ by state?

Judicial elections vary significantly across states in terms of process, funding, and political influence. Some states elect judges, while others appoint them, affecting how judges campaign and are held accountable. This variability can lead to differing levels of public trust in the judiciary and its perceived independence.

What influence do billionaires have on politics?

Billionaires like Elon Musk wield substantial influence in politics through financial contributions and public advocacy. Their ability to fund campaigns and initiatives can sway elections and shape policy discussions, raising concerns about the concentration of political power and the potential for conflicts of interest.

How might this affect future elections?

The Wisconsin Supreme Court race could set a precedent for future elections, particularly regarding the role of money in politics. If Musk's involvement leads to a conservative victory, it may encourage similar strategies in other states, potentially reshaping how elections are contested and the influence of wealthy donors.

What legal issues surround Musk's donations?

Musk's donations to voters have raised legal questions regarding the legality of such actions under state laws prohibiting quid pro quo arrangements. The Wisconsin Supreme Court's decision to allow these payments has sparked debate about electoral integrity and the ethical implications of financial incentives in voting.

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Change in Rank +12

Thread Age 4 days

Number of Articles 88

Political Leaning

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Center 30.6%

Right 34.1%

Regional Coverage

US 92.0%

Non-US 8.0%

Recent Coverage

'Explosive!' Wisconsin Dem chair bullish on turnout in must-watch election

Raw Story - 48 hours ago - The head of Wisconsin Democrats touted what he called "explosive" turnout from his party on Tuesday in the widely watched race for Wisconsin Supreme Court.On the ballot in the state are the Wisconsin Supreme Court and State Superintendent of Public Instruction: All eyes nationally were on the Suprem...

Wisconsin Supreme Court race sees strong voter turnout thanks to Trump and Musk factor

Washington Examiner - 50 hours ago - President Trump won Wisconsin in 2024, carrying it by a margin of 0.86%. More than $90 million has been pumped into Tuesday's state judicial race.

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The Epoch Times - 50 hours ago - Two Congressional seats in Florida and a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court are decided by votes on April 1.

Wisconsin Supreme Court race may not be indicator of Trump agenda: Byron York

Washington Examiner - 51 hours ago - The race has garnered national attention as Wisconsin voters head to the ballot box after witnessing “a very, very eventful couple of months” under President Donald Trump’s leadership.

Report: Foreign-Funded Dark Money Group Shelled Out $1 Million To Elect Wisconsin Leftist Susan Crawford

The Federalist - 52 hours ago - A dark money group funded by foreign cash funneled $1 million to an organization backing leftist Susan Crawford for Wisconsin's Supreme Court.

Stakes High in Tuesday Wisconsin Supreme Court Race

Newsmax - 52 hours ago - Majority control of the Wisconsin Supreme Court will be decided Tuesday in a race that broke records for spending and has become a proxy battle for the nation's political fights, pitting a candidate backed by President Donald Trump against a Democrat-aligned challenger.

Musk’s final pitch to Wisconsin voters

Washington Examiner - 52 hours ago - In a final appeal to voters, Elon Musk once again emphasized the long-term importance of Wisconsin's Supreme Court election.

Why Wisconsin's Supreme Court race is so important nationally

CBS News - 53 hours ago - A race to fill a vacant seat for Wisconsin's Supreme Court has drawn millions in donations and the endorsements of influential people at a national level. CBS58 Milwaukee's Bill Walsh breaks down the race's impact.

Wisconsin Supreme Court Election Results 2025: Crawford vs. Schimel

The New York Times - 54 hours ago - Get live results and maps from the 2025 Wisconsin spring elections.

Wisconsin Supreme Court race seen by many as referendum on Musk, Trump

CBS News - 54 hours ago - Residents are taking their chance Tuesday to vote in an unusually high-stakes race for a seat on Wisconsin's Supreme Court, between candidates Susan Crawford and Brad Schimel, the latter of whom has been getting a lot of support from Elon Musk.

Who Is Susan Crawford, Wisconsin’s Newly Elected Supreme Court Judge?

Vogue - 54 hours ago - Crawford has represented Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin, the League of Women Voters, and the Madison teachers union over the course of her career.

Democratic-backed Susan Crawford wins Wisconsin Supreme Court seat, cementing liberal majority

Chicago Tribune - 58 hours ago - The Democratic-backed candidate for Wisconsin Supreme Court defeated a challenger endorsed by President Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

Wisconsin Supreme Court election is most expensive judicial race in history

CBS News - 59 hours ago - The Wisconsin state Supreme Court race has drawn national interest, with the high-stakes election becoming the most expensive contest in judicial history. CBS News' Ed O'Keefe has more.

GOP quietly hopes Wisconsin voters 'take Elon Musk down a peg': analyst

Raw Story - 59 hours ago - Wisconsin's Supreme Court race has become a referendum on Elon Musk, and MSNBC's John Heilemann said a lot of Republicans wouldn't mind if the conservative candidate lost there.Groups affiliated with the tech billionaire and Donald Trump adviser have poured more than $21 million into the race betwee...

Wisconsin Voters: ELECT BRAD SCHIMEL or Watch Democrats Redraw the Map and Steal Two GOP House Seats — Your Voice Is on the Line!

The Gateway Pundit - 59 hours ago - Wisconsin's Supreme Court election today could reshape the state's political landscape. With Brad Schimel facing a critical challenge, the outcome may determine Republican representation and the future of congressional maps.

Wisconsin Supreme Court Polls: Susan Crawford's Chances of Winning Election

Newsweek - 59 hours ago - A new poll shows that Democratic-backed candidate Susan Crawford has a narrow lead as Wisconsin voters head to the polls to elect a new Supreme Court justice.

'The irony, it burns': MSNBC conservative turns Elon Musk claims upside-down

Raw Story - 60 hours ago - Charlie Sykes laid out the stakes in Tuesday's election for an open seat on Wisconsin's Supreme Court, which he said has become a referendum on Donald Trump's presidency and Elon Musk's influence.The president has been campaigning for conservative candidate Brad Schimel in the nominally nonpartisan ...