Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Ann Walsh Bradley has announced that she will not seek another term, despite previously stating she would run for a fourth term. Her decision opens up a high-stakes battle for control of the court, with at least two liberal judges considering entering the race. Former Republican Attorney General Brad Schimel is currently the only announced candidate. The primary is scheduled for February 18, with the general election on April 1.
Bradley, who was first elected to the court in 1995, was the first woman in Wisconsin history to join the court through election rather than appointment. As one of six women on the seven-justice court, she is now the fifth longest-serving justice in Wisconsin history. In her statement, Bradley expressed that while she could have been reelected, she believes it is time to pass the torch and bring fresh perspectives to the court.
Schimel responded to Bradley’s decision by framing the race as a battle against the court’s “leftist majority.” Judge Susan Crawford and Judge Chris Taylor, both with liberal backgrounds, are also considering entering the race. Crawford, who recently won reelection to a second term, has experience as chief legal counsel to former Democratic Governor Jim Doyle and has fought against Republican laws on issues such as abortion access, collective bargaining, and voting rights.
Taylor, a former Democratic state representative, has advocated for abortion rights, gun control, and programs for victims of sexual and domestic violence. She served as a Dane County circuit judge before being elected to the state appeals court in 2023. Liberals currently hold a majority on the Wisconsin Supreme Court following Janet Protasiewicz’s victory in 2023 over former Justice Dan Kelly, flipping the court after 15 years of conservative control.
Since gaining control, the liberal-leaning court has made significant rulings, including overturning Republican-drawn legislative district maps and considering challenges to a state law that some interpret as banning abortion. The upcoming election for Bradley’s seat on the court will be closely watched as both sides vie for control of this influential judicial body. The primary in February and the general election in April will determine the future direction of the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
