MADISON, Wis. — Democrats are poised to strengthen their control of the Wisconsin Supreme Court in a crucial election that has abortion rights at its center. The stakes regarding key issues such as congressional redistricting, union rights, and education policies are rising in this politically pivotal state.
This year's election contrasts starkly with past cycles where massive funds changed hands. As attention diminishes without the court's majority control on the line, Democratic candidate Chris Taylor faces Republican contender Maria Lazar. Both candidates serve on the state Appeals Court.
In the upcoming November elections, Democrats aim to secure the governor’s office and potentially flip a Republican-held state Legislature. They wish to reverse numerous laws enacted during Republican control in the past decade, which solidified Wisconsin’s role in the conservative political landscape.
Should Taylor win, the liberal majority could extend its grip from 4-3 to 5-2, lasting until at least 2030. That would lock in their influence following previous critical victories in 2023.
Past elections boast considerable national involvement, including large donations from Trump and major figures like George Soros and Elon Musk, who have previously mobilized voters. The current candidates are less funded, as Taylor outpaces Lazar significantly in campaign spending, focusing largely on abortion as a key issue.
Both candidates have exchanged sharp criticisms regarding their platforms. Taylor has marketed herself as a defender of abortion rights, while Lazar attempts to label her as an extreme partisan. Taylor has previously served in the state assembly, while Lazar gained experience under a conservative attorney general, defending laws that limited union rights and access to abortion.
The court's liberal faction has already initiated significant changes, overturning previous legislation concerning abortion and absentee ballots. With the potential for a 6-1 liberal majority should they succeed in these elections, momentum is strongly leaning toward the Democrats.
