Spending in the Wisconsin Supreme Court election, which had already set a record for the most expensive state supreme court race in American history, has passed $90 million as of Monday, according to a tally by the Brennan Center for Justice, a nonprofit law institute.
That $90 million includes more than $40 million total spent by the liberal candidate, Dane County Judge Susan Crawford, and groups supporting her — and almost $50 million total spent by the conservative candidate Waukesha County Judge Brad Schimel and groups supporting him.
Groups affiliated with Elon Musk, President Donald Trump’s closest adviser and the billionaire owner of Tesla, have spent almost $20 million in the race supporting Schimel.
The Musk-affiliated America PAC has spent more than $12 million, while another group linked to him, Building America’s Future, has spent almost $6 million.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court race for 2025 has become one of the most expensive judicial elections in U.S. history, with spending now surpassing $90 million. This unprecedented financial investment in the state’s highest court election highlights just how significant the race has become, drawing national attention as various political groups and stakeholders gear up to influence the outcome.
The Nonprofit Law Institute reports that this election has garnered a record-breaking amount of money, making it not only one of the costliest judicial races in Wisconsin but in the entire country. The race is seen as crucial, with the potential to shape policy and rulings on key issues, including abortion rights, voter access, and gerrymandering, in a state that plays a pivotal role in national politics.
Why the Heavy Spending?
The surging campaign expenditures reflect the growing polarization of judicial elections. In Wisconsin, where the state Supreme Court has historically swung between conservative and liberal control, the outcome of this race could have far-reaching consequences. Many of the state’s legal battles—such as challenges to election laws and the gerrymandering of district lines—are ultimately decided by the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
Groups on both sides of the political spectrum are making major investments, recognizing that a shift in the court’s ideological makeup could significantly impact future decisions on critical issues that resonate beyond state boundaries. Special interest groups, including conservative and liberal advocacy organizations, have poured millions of dollars into the race to support their preferred candidates.
The Role of Political Action Committees (PACs)
Political action committees (PACs) have also played a key role in inflating the overall spending totals. These groups, which are allowed to raise and spend unlimited funds, have financed advertisements, mailers, and other campaign efforts to influence voter perceptions. With high stakes on the line, the amount of money flowing into these PACs has led to an influx of negative advertisements, leaving voters flooded with information, both true and misleading.
A significant portion of the money has come from national groups, underscoring the influence of out-of-state political dynamics. Outside groups believe the outcome in Wisconsin’s Supreme Court race can have national repercussions, especially with the state’s role in the presidential elections.
Impact on Voters and the Election Process
Critics argue that such massive spending undermines the integrity of the judicial system, making it seem as if judicial candidates are more beholden to powerful donors and interest groups than to the rule of law. There are concerns that voters may become disillusioned with the idea of an impartial judiciary, with some calling for reforms to limit the influence of money in elections.
However, supporters of the spending point out that it reflects the highly competitive and fiercely contested nature of the election. With an increased focus on judicial appointments in the wake of decisions like the overturning of Roe v. Wade, many feel the stakes have never been higher.
What’s Next?
As the election draws nearer, the flood of money into the race shows no signs of slowing down. Candidates will continue to receive support from outside groups, and voters are likely to face a barrage of last-minute advertisements and campaign events in the lead-up to the election.
The result of the Wisconsin Supreme Court race will have lasting implications, and experts predict it could influence judicial elections across the country. With the final tally of spending likely to grow even higher as we approach the election, one thing is clear: the race to secure control of the Wisconsin Supreme Court is far from over, and it will continue to be defined by high stakes and record-setting financial influence.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court election has become a financial battleground, with over $90 million spent to secure a decisive victory in a contest that will affect much more than just the state of Wisconsin. As the race intensifies, the influx of money and the political influence behind it will remain central to the narrative of this election, leaving voters with a critical choice in determining the future of their state’s judiciary.
