News

Control Of Wisconsin Politics Looms Over State Supreme Court Election

One liberal judge and one conservative former justice advanced through Wisconsin’s Supreme Court primary, setting the stage for a contentious battle over the state’s seventh seat on the highest court.

Four candidates – two liberals and two conservatives – competed for two slots in the April 4 general election. Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Janet Protasiewicz and ex-Justice Dan Kelly received the most votes in the primary, advancing both candidates.

The final seat is a high priority for multiple big-ticket ideological issues. Wisconsin’s court will likely hear cases regarding abortion access, gerrymandered districts and voting rights issues. The court held a 4-3 conservative majority before conservative Justice Patience Roggensack announced his retirement.

The court nearly overturned President Joe Biden‘s 2020 electoral victory. With a likely close 2024 presidential race looming, court integrity remains a high national priority.

Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter!

A week of political news in your in-box.
We find the news you need to know, so you don't have to.

Outside groups have already spent $9.2 million on the race.

Protasiewicz was the highest vote-getter accruing 46 percent of the vote. Kelly received 24 percent.

“Everything we care about is going to be determined by who wins this election,” Protasiewicz said to supporters following her advancement. “We’re saving our democracy in the state of Wisconsin.”

“That’s what I’m explaining to people. I’m talking about the ability to vote, to have a vote that counts about women’s rights, reproductive freedoms, the fact that the 2024 presidential election results could likely come into our Supreme Court chamber, just everything people care about.”

Kelly drew a contrast with his competitor, saying that justices are not charged with settling political issues.

“I think they are going to be passionate about supporting their constitution and protecting it from being overturned by someone who is trying to put her thumb on the scales of justice,” Kelly said at his election party, less than two-tenths of a mile away from Protasiewicz’s.

Ben Shimkus

Recent Posts

Michael Cohen Testifies Trump Told Him ‘There’s Going To Be A Lot Of Women Coming Forward’ At Hush Money Trial

Michael Cohen, former attorney and fixer of former President Donald Trump, took the stand on…

14 hours ago

Justice Department Recommends Softening Of Marijuana Restrictions

The Justice Department said it had recommended easing restrictions on marijuana in what could be…

7 days ago

Republican House Majority Shrinks To One Vote After Democratic Rep. Tim Kennedy Is Sworn In

Democratic New York State Sen. Tim Kennedy won a special election against Republican West Seneca…

7 days ago

Judge Threatens Trump With Jail For 10 Violations Of Gag Order

On Monday morning, Judge Juan Merchan held Donald Trump in contempt of court for violating a gag…

1 week ago

After Hunter Biden Announces Plans To Sue Fox News, Network Removes Documentary About Him

In a letter sent to Fox News, Hunter Biden's lawyers announced plans to sue the…

1 week ago

Biden Administration Makes It Easier For Air Passengers To Get Refunds

Under a new Biden Administration rule, passengers whose flights are canceled or "significantly" delayed will…

1 week ago