In a closely watched and highly contentious election, liberal Judge Susan Crawford defeated conservative Judge Brad Schimel in Wisconsin’s Supreme Court race on April 1, 2025. The election, now the most expensive judicial race in U.S. history, saw over $80 million in spending, with billionaire Elon Musk investing heavily in Schimel’s campaign.
Musk’s political action committee, America PAC, contributed more than $12 million to support Schimel, aiming to secure a conservative majority on the state’s highest court. Additionally, Musk made headlines by offering $1 million each to two Wisconsin voters in a controversial move intended to highlight voter apathy. Despite this massive financial push, Crawford won decisively, maintaining the court’s 4-3 liberal majority for at least the next three years.
“Money can buy ads and airtime, but it can’t always buy votes,” said Mark Reynolds, a political analyst at the University of Wisconsin. “This election shows that Wisconsin voters aren’t easily swayed by flashy campaigns or deep pockets.”
Crawford’s victory represents a significant setback for Musk’s efforts to influence the court’s stance on contentious issues, including abortion rights, redistricting, and voter ID laws. “Wisconsin made it clear that our courts should reflect our values, not the interests of billionaires,” Crawford said during her victory speech.
Schimel expressed disappointment in the outcome, thanking his supporters and emphasizing the importance of conservative judicial principles. “We fought hard to ensure the rule of law prevails, and though we fell short, our fight continues,” he said.
Critics argue that Musk’s heavy involvement in a state judicial race highlights concerns about the influence of big money in politics. “It’s troubling to see billionaires throwing cash around to influence elections,” said Emma Hayes, a representative from Common Cause Wisconsin. “It raises questions about fairness and the integrity of our democracy.”
However, some supporters defended Musk’s actions, calling his investments an effort to bring attention to vital judicial issues. “Elon Musk believes in supporting causes he cares about—this was no different,” said America PAC spokesperson Jacob Green.
With Crawford now set to serve a 10-year term, the court is expected to lean left on critical cases affecting the state. The election’s staggering cost has sparked calls for campaign finance reform and renewed scrutiny of the role of money in politics.
As the dust settles, Wisconsin’s election serves as a reminder that deep pockets don’t guarantee victory. “The voters spoke,” Crawford remarked. “And their voices are more powerful than any amount of money.”
Will that you most forever always remember this way.