Musk Enters Wisconsin Supreme Court Race with Millions

Elon Musk’s Political Activities Resurface with a Focus on Wisconsin Supreme Court Election

Elon Musk is once again making waves in the political arena as he re-engages with electoral campaigns through his super PAC, America PAC. Having established himself as the largest donor during the 2024 election cycle, Musk is now directing his financial resources toward supporting conservative candidate Brad Schimel in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race. This marks Musk’s first foray into public political spending following the recent Election Day.

According to campaign finance filings made public recently, America PAC has already invested $1 million in canvassing efforts in Wisconsin. The outreach includes pamphlets that have been distributed to various residences throughout the state. These materials prominently feature a message urging residents to support former President Donald Trump by voting. Additionally, the pamphlets direct voters to a website for registration and information on early voting procedures.

In conjunction with America PAC’s activities, a nonprofit organization historically aligned with Musk, known as Building America’s Future, has launched an impressive $1.6 million television advertising campaign aimed at bolstering Judge Schimel. Schimel, who previously served as the state attorney general, currently holds a judicial position in Waukesha County. It is worth noting that while Building America’s Future has other prominent donors and is not directly controlled by Musk, America PAC is primarily funded by the billionaire himself, making its efforts more directly connected to his influence.

While Wisconsin Supreme Court elections are classified as nonpartisan, the political landscape is nonetheless heavily influenced by endorsements from major party affiliates. Schimel has received the backing of the Republican Party of Wisconsin, which is permitted to transfer unlimited funds to his campaign due to state campaign finance laws. In contrast, his opponent, liberal candidate Susan Crawford, has been endorsed by the Democratic Party of Wisconsin and serves on a court in Dane County, a region recognized for its Democratic leanings, particularly surrounding the city of Madison.

The forthcoming election, slated for April 1, is anticipated to hold significant stakes, potentially surpassing any other election this year leading up to the gubernatorial elections in New Jersey and Virginia in November. Currently, the Wisconsin Supreme Court holds a narrow liberal majority of four to three. However, the retirement of Justice Ann Walsh Bradley, a liberal who has served on the court since 1995, has raised concerns about the future ideological balance of the court, making this election critical for both parties.

The outcomes of this election will likely influence pivotal issues such as abortion laws and legislative district lines, as these matters are expected to be contested in the state high court in the coming months. Earlier this year, Musk’s automotive company, Tesla, initiated legal action against Wisconsin over a law that prohibits manufacturers from owning car dealerships. Following this, Musk took to his social media platform to express the importance of voting Republican in the upcoming Supreme Court election to prevent electoral fraud.

This election is being positioned as potentially the most expensive judicial election in American history, with previous records being shattered. The last Supreme Court election in Wisconsin saw spending reach an astounding $55 million, resulting in the election of Justice Janet Protasiewicz, a liberal, which shifted the court’s majority for the first time in 15 years.

On Election Night in November, Musk reiterated that he plans to sustain his super PAC’s activities, having allocated nearly $300 million to support Trump’s endeavors. He expressed a commitment to maintain the momentum of America PAC as it prepares for upcoming midterm elections and lesser-known local elections, emphasizing the need to counteract the influences of prominent progressive donors like George Soros.

Musk’s strategic involvement in the Wisconsin Supreme Court election encapsulates a broader trend in American politics, where wealthy individuals utilize their financial resources to support preferred candidates and causes. As the April election approaches, all eyes will be on Wisconsin to see how Musk’s contributions shape the landscape of the state’s judicial future and, potentially, broader national political dynamics.