In a recent election in Wisconsin, billionaire Elon Musk’s substantial financial efforts to influence the outcome fell short, providing a blueprint for countering Trumpism. Musk invested over $25 million to support a right-wing candidate for the state’s Supreme Court and advocated against what he termed “judicial activism.” Prior to the vote, Musk declared the election’s significance on a global scale while visiting Green Bay.
However, citizens of Wisconsin delivered a decisive rejection of Musk’s influence and standing alongside former President Donald Trump’s strong rhetoric against the progressive candidate. Voters from various demographics, including urban centers, suburbs, and rural communities, pushed back against the Republican Party’s attempt to shape the judiciary to their ideological preferences.
Judge Susan Crawford, supported by progressive establishments such as Senator Tammy Baldwin, labor unions, and the Wisconsin Democratic Party, defeated former Attorney General Brad Schimel with a substantial margin of 55–45. Crawford’s victory cemented a 4-3 progressive majority in the Wisconsin Supreme Court, a significant outcome given the pending key cases on abortion, labor, and voting rights.
The election gained additional significance due to its location in Wisconsin, a state narrowly claimed by Trump in the previous presidential election. Representative Mark Pocan emphasized the election as a referendum on Musk, Trump, and Republican policies, underscoring the electorate’s opposition to the financial and political dominance exerted by such figures.
Musk, in an attempt to minimize the defeat, shifted focus to the passing of a voter-ID amendment, deeming it the most critical occurrence of the election, despite existing voter-ID laws in the state. As Crawford celebrated her win, she reflected on her modest beginnings and expressed triumph over opposing formidable financial backing.
The race, one of the most financially intensive state court races in U.S. history, saw expenditures exceeding $100 million, with Musk alone contributing $25 million. Crawford was praised for her calm and effective campaign strategy against significant opposition support by Musk and endorsements from Trump.
The election outcome served as a rallying point against wealthy influence in politics and highlighted voters’ desire for maintaining democratic integrity. Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chairman Ben Wikler characterized the results as a vigilant stand against wealth-driven political control and an inspiring moment for future political endeavors at all levels.
Overall, Wisconsin voters demonstrated that financial might does not guarantee election success, signaling hope and resilience in protecting democratic processes and transparency.
