People power prevails: Judge Susan Crawford wins Wisconsin Supreme Court Race

MADISON – In a resounding victory for democracy and environmental protection, Judge Susan Crawford has won a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court, securing a pro-democracy, pro-conservation majority that will safeguard Wisconsin’s future for generations to come.

“This win is a testament to the power of voters standing up against corporate polluters, anti-democracy forces, and the extreme agendas of Elon Musk and Donald Trump,” said Executive Director Kerry Schumann. “This sends a clear message to those who wish to dismantle what’s best for our state, its people, and its environment. And, it’s a call to press the fight and reclaim our shared future.”

Wisconsin Conservation Voters Independent Expenditure Committee (IEC) played a pivotal role in this victory, investing over $1.13 million and mobilizing thousands of volunteers to ensure voters knew what was at stake. With the balance of the court on the line, the grassroots movement knocked on 130,000 doors, sent more than 21,100 postcards, and launched a digital ad campaign exposing the corporate influence threatening Wisconsin’s clean water, air, and democracy.

Crawford’s defeated opponent, Brad Schimel, has a long history of siding with polluting corporations, gutting environmental protections, and aligning with extremist political forces that put profits over people. His defeat at the hands of Wisconsin voters sends a clear message: Wisconsinites want fair, impartial justices who prioritize the rule of law over corporate greed.

“This victory belongs to the people of Wisconsin,” said Schumann. “Judge Susan Crawford has a proven track record of standing up for the environment, holding polluters accountable, and defending the rights of every Wisconsinite. Her leadership on the Supreme Court will help ensure our natural resources, voting rights, and democracy are protected from corporate special interests.”

Judge Susan Crawford’s win solidifies a court that will uphold Wisconsin’s constitution, enforce environmental laws, and push back against extremist agendas. Her leadership will help protect the state’s drinking water, air quality, and democratic institutions for future generations.

Wisconsin Conservation Voters thanks every voter, volunteer, and advocate who took action in this election. This victory proves that when people stand together, they can overcome the influence of corporate polluters and defend the values that make Wisconsin strong.

“The stakes in this election could not have been higher,” said Deputy Director Seth Hoffmeister. “With critical cases on the horizon, Judge Crawford’s victory ensures that Wisconsin’s highest court remains a defender of justice and the will of the people. We look to the future now. We’ll fight for Wisconsin every day and in every election until we secure a brighter, cleaner, and more prosperous future for everyone living here.”

Contact Ryan Billingham, Communications Director, Wisconsin Conservation Voters, 608-208-1129 (office), 608-213-6972 (mobile/text), or ryan@conservationvoters.org