Crawford's Victory: Defying Musk's Millions in Wisconsin

In the heart of Wisconsin, a political drama unfolded that would captivate the nation. Susan Crawford, a county judge from Dane County, faced off against Brad Schimel, a former Republican state attorney general, in a race that would determine the ideological balance of the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The stakes were high, and the financial backing was unprecedented. Elon Musk, the world's wealthiest person, injected himself into the race, pouring millions into Schimel's campaign and even handing out $1 million checks to voters. But Crawford, with her measured demeanor and strong record on key issues, was not about to be swayed by Musk's financial might.

The race was a microcosm of the broader political landscape, with national figures like President Donald Trump and former President Barack Obama weighing in. Musk's involvement added a layer of controversy, as his company, Tesla, was suing the state of Wisconsin over its law prohibiting direct car sales. The billionaire's actions, including his $1 million voter giveaway, were seen as a desperate attempt to sway the election in his favor.



Crawford's campaign strategy was a masterclass in countering Musk's influence. She consistently portrayed Schimel as an extension of Musk and Trump, highlighting the billionaire's unpopularity in Wisconsin. TV ads blasted Musk as "out of control" and portrayed him as trying to "buy the Wisconsin Supreme Court." This messaging resonated with voters, particularly Democrats and independents, who viewed Musk unfavorably.

Crawford also received significant backing from national Democrats, including endorsements from former President Barack Obama, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, George Soros, and EMILYs List. This support helped to counterbalance Musk's financial influence and provided Crawford with a strong base of support.

The race was projected to be the most expensive state supreme court election ever, with spending by the candidates and their supporters reportedly topping $100 million. The money fueled a bruising election cycle, in part because of the national stakes in the race, which was seen as a measure of voter sentiment and an early indication of how one swing state would respond to the involvement of Trump-aligned figures.

Crawford's victory was a testament to her campaign strategy and the support she received from national Democrats. It was also a sign that voters were not swayed by Musk's financial might and were instead focused on the issues that mattered most to them. The race was a reminder that in politics, as in life, money can't buy everything.



The outcome of the race had significant implications for the Wisconsin Supreme Court, which is expected to consider cases related to abortion rights, congressional redistricting, union power, and voting and election rules. Crawford's victory means that the court's 4-3 liberal majority will remain in place, ensuring that these issues will be decided by a court that is more likely to uphold progressive values.

In the end, Susan Crawford's victory was a triumph of substance over spectacle, of issues over influence. It was a reminder that in politics, as in life, the power of ideas and the strength of character can overcome even the most formidable obstacles. And for Elon Musk, it was a lesson in the limits of financial might in the face of a determined and principled opponent.