In a dramatic display of political influence, billionaire Elon Musk handed out $1 million checks to two voters in Wisconsin on Sunday, March 30, 2025, as part of his effort to sway the upcoming state Supreme Court election. The event, held at a rally in Green Bay, has drawn national attention and is already being labeled the most expensive judicial race in U.S. history, with total spending expected to reach $100 million.
Musk, a prominent advisor to former President Donald Trump, is backing conservative candidate Brad Schimel against liberal candidate Susan Crawford in a race that could reshape the ideological balance of the court. With the election set for April 1, 2025, the stakes are high, as the court will soon rule on critical issues including abortion rights, labor rights, and potentially the redistricting of congressional districts.
During the rally, Musk emphasized the significance of the election, stating, "I think this will be important for the future of civilization. It's that significant." He warned that if Crawford wins, it could lead to a liberal court that might redraw legislative districts, potentially jeopardizing Republican seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.
In addition to the million-dollar giveaways, Musk announced that he would pay supporters $20 for every voter they recruit over the next two days, further intensifying the competitive atmosphere surrounding the election. His actions have sparked controversy, as Wisconsin's Attorney General Josh Kaul filed a lawsuit arguing that such payouts constitute illegal inducement to vote. However, the state Supreme Court ruled against this appeal, allowing Musk's giveaways to proceed.
The financial backing Musk has provided for Schimel's campaign is substantial. As of last week, groups affiliated with Musk had already spent at least $17.5 million to support the conservative candidate. Musk's involvement in this election mirrors his previous efforts during the 2024 presidential election, where he also financially incentivized voters to support conservative causes.
The upcoming election is significant not just for Wisconsin but for the national political landscape as well. With Wisconsin being a key swing state, the results could serve as a referendum on Trump’s influence and the Democratic Party's response following the recent presidential election. Musk's participation has further heightened the stakes, as Democrats have accused him of attempting to buy influence over the judicial system.
Both candidates bring distinct backgrounds to the race. Schimel, a former Republican attorney general, has been endorsed by Trump and is aiming to shift the court's current 4-3 liberal majority. In contrast, Crawford, a Dane County judge, has received support from notable Democratic figures including former President Barack Obama and billionaire George Soros.
The election's outcome will not only determine the ideological direction of the Wisconsin Supreme Court but also influence key issues such as abortion rights and labor laws that have been contentious in recent years. Musk's warnings about potential gerrymandering and the implications for future elections underscore the broader political ramifications of this judicial race.
As the election date approaches, both campaigns are ramping up their efforts, with a barrage of advertisements flooding television, websites, and mailboxes. The intense financial and strategic commitments from both sides reflect the high stakes involved in this judicial contest, which could have lasting effects on Wisconsin's political landscape.
In summary, Musk's extravagant financial contributions and the contentious nature of the election highlight the intersection of money and politics in America, particularly as it pertains to judicial races. With both candidates poised to make their case to voters, the upcoming election on April 1 will undoubtedly be a pivotal moment for Wisconsin and a potential bellwether for the national political climate.
