Justice Rebecca Bradley will not seek reelection to the Wisconsin Supreme Court, leaving the race open and highlighting ongoing challenges for conservatives in Wisconsin judicial elections, which tend to favor liberals. The race for her seat is expected to be competitive, with potential candidates like Judge Maria Lazar considering a run, and reflects broader political dynamics affecting nonpresidential races in Wisconsin.
Justice Ann Walsh Bradley, the longest-serving member of the Wisconsin Supreme Court's liberal majority, announced she will not seek reelection, setting the stage for a consequential race in a swing state and potentially allowing conservatives to retake control. Her retirement comes after the court's recent 4-3 decisions on key issues such as election maps, ballot drop boxes, and abortion. With Bradley out of the race, the April 2025 election becomes crucial for conservatives, who aim to defend seats in 2026 and 2027.
Wisconsin's record-breaking state judicial race, which has surpassed $45 million in spending, is coming to a close. The election could change the course of everything from a 1840s abortion ban to congressional and legislative maps that all but ensure GOP control. The outcome of the race could also have implications for the 2024 presidential election in the crucial swing state. The state Supreme Court is expected to rule on access to abortion in the state in the coming months. Polls close at 8 p.m. Central time.
