Battle for the Bench: Wisconsin Supreme Court Election 2022
A conservative justice on the Wisconsin Supreme Court has announced that she will not seek reelection, leaving an open seat on the court currently controlled by liberals. This decision comes after conservative candidates have faced defeats in recent elections, resulting in a shift in the court's majority to the liberal side. The upcoming election will determine the balance of power on the court, with liberals expected to maintain their majority until at least 2028.
The open race for the Wisconsin Supreme Court has attracted interest from potential candidates, including state appeals court judge Chris Taylor, who has already announced her candidacy. Another potential candidate, conservative Maria Lazar, is also considering entering the race. Several key issues, such as abortion, collective bargaining rights, congressional redistricting, and election rules, could come before the court in the near future.
Justice Rebecca Bradley, who had initially planned to run for reelection, cited her desire to focus on rebuilding the conservative movement as a reason for not seeking another term. Her decision has prompted a significant fundraising effort for Taylor's campaign, highlighting the importance of the upcoming election for both sides. Bradley, known for her conservative stance on the court, had been appointed by former Gov. Scott Walker in 2015.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court has been at the center of contentious legal battles in recent years, with key decisions on various issues shaping the state's legal landscape. The upcoming election will play a crucial role in determining the direction of the court and its impact on important issues facing Wisconsin.