Elon Musk Faces Liberal Backlash Over Donations in Wisconsin Supreme Court Race

In recent months, Wisconsin Democrats faced challenges in generating enthusiasm for the critical State Supreme Court election. While they were able to raise significant funds, there was a concern that voter engagement was lacking. On the other side, Wisconsin Republicans, buoyed by a successful bid for President Trump in the previous November, found themselves facing a financial disadvantage, as Democrats typically have superior organization and funding.

The narrative took an unexpected turn with the involvement of Elon Musk, the world’s wealthiest individual, who has been increasingly influencing political direction from the White House and channeling substantial resources to support pro-Trump candidates. After spending over $250 million to help return Trump to power, Musk shifted his focus to the Wisconsin Supreme Court race, investing more than $20 million to support conservative candidate Brad Schimel, who is vying for a seat that will be pivotal in decisions surrounding abortion rights, redistricting, and labor rights in the state.

Musk’s involvement has vaulted him into the spotlight of this high-stakes contest, prompting speculation about whether the rising fervor among Democrats can overcome his formidable political machine. A win for liberal candidate Susan Crawford would symbolize a backlash against both Trump and Musk, fueling hope among Democrats. Conversely, a victory for Schimel would reinforce Musk’s influence and set a precedent for the success of Trump-aligned candidates across the nation.

Rohn Bishop, a Republican mayor from Waupun, expressed the pervasive impact Musk has had on local politics, noting how discussions during town-hall meetings have often shifted towards Musk’s controversial actions related to federal governance. Musk has even introduced financial incentives, offering $100 to Wisconsin voters who sign a petition opposing “activist judges.” Additionally, he has created a sweepstakes, promising $1 million to a couple of petitioners who vote—a move that has raised red flags among campaign finance experts regarding the legality of incentivizing votes.

Despite the ostensibly nonpartisan nature of judicial elections in Wisconsin, the race has become overtly polarized, with both parties emphasizing their support for their respective candidates. Democrats aim to keep the court’s liberal majority intact, while Republicans seek to reclaim control, framing this election as a national referendum on party enthusiasm.

High-profile figures from both parties are heavily invested in the outcome. Representative Hakeem Jeffries highlighted the stakes, suggesting that a win for Crawford could manipulate the balance of power in Congress by revisiting gerrymandered districts. Trump himself emphasized the race’s significance, suggesting its outcome would have ramifications beyond Wisconsin.

As campaign efforts intensify, Democrats, who initially aimed to focus on issues like abortion rights, quickly shifted their strategy to target Musk as he began his financial support for Schimel. Crawford has leveraged Musk’s polarizing figure to her advantage, branding her campaign tour as “The People v. Elon Musk,” thereby rallying voters against his influence over their electoral process.

The enormous financial influx—over $90 million thus far—has transformed the landscape of the campaign, creating an environment saturated with advertisements that many voters find overwhelming. However, early voting has surged, partially stimulated by heightened Republican enthusiasm and the incessant political messaging saturating households across the state.

Amidst this financial arms race, the candidates themselves have somewhat faded from the public eye. Judge Crawford has adopted a low-key approach while addressing her political views, indicating her nuanced stance on contentious issues. In contrast, Judge Schimel, a former state attorney general, openly embraces his affiliation with Trump, even jesting about it through Halloween costumes and public display.

Former Governor Scott Walker predicted that the Democratic focus on Musk might backfire, energizing Republican voters who feel a personal connection to Trump. He noted that although the Democrats might invigorate their base, they run the risk of also galvanizing Republican support for Schimel as they publicize their disdain for Musk and Trump.

As the election draws near, both sides recognize that the outcome could set significant precedents, influencing both local and national political trajectories. Democratic leaders see renewed engagement among constituents, suggesting that the contentious dynamics of this election have rekindled interest and activism. The attention drawn by Musk’s involvement may have inadvertently invigorated the political landscape in Wisconsin, making this Supreme Court race one of the focal points of the national electoral conversation.