Wisconsin Supreme Court election spending may reach $100 million

Spending in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race is expected to exceed $100 million, fueled by significant contributions from billionaires like Elon Musk and George Soros. This amount would be double the previous record set in the last election just two years ago. As of now, the total funds raised by the two campaigns and various interest groups are nearing the national spending record of $51 million for a court race. The election is set for April 1, with Judge Susan Crawford, a liberal, facing off against Judge Brad Schimel, a conservative. The outcome will again influence the ideological balance of the state's Supreme Court. Independent expenditures have jumped by about 103% compared to the same time last election cycle. Currently, there is $29.24 million in independent spending reported, up from $14.41 million two years ago. Unlike the previous election, there was no primary for this year's candidates. Musk’s involvement is notable, with over $11 million contributed through his political action committee. He has also faced opposition spending from a Democratic initiative called "The People v Elon Musk." Other wealthy individuals funding the race include George Soros, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, and Diane Hendricks, among others. Election expert Nick Ramos commented on the situation, saying that rich donors are closely watching the outcome in hopes of influencing the direction of Wisconsin's high court.