On Wednesday, February 5, 2025, WUWM 89.7 reported that an ethics complaint had been filed against Waukesha County Judge Brad Schimel, who is currently campaigning for a position on the Wisconsin Supreme Court in the upcoming April election. The complaint raises concerns about allegations that Schimel has engaged in direct fundraising efforts, which could contravene the Wisconsin Judicial Code of Ethics.
Judge Schimel, who has received support from conservative groups, has been actively campaigning for over a year. Recent reports from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel highlight instances where Schimel jokingly referred to his need for knee pads, suggesting he has been on his knees soliciting donations. The Wisconsin Judicial Conduct Code prohibits judicial candidates from personally requesting or accepting campaign contributions.
Nick Ramos, executive director of the Wisconsin Democracy Campaign, has formally submitted the complaint to the Wisconsin Judicial Commission, which consists of nine members. Ramos emphasized the importance of investigating these allegations, stating, “After these comments that have been made, I think it’s imperative that the commission that oversees these types of things takes a deeper dive and sees if there are violations to our Supreme Court rules.” He underscored that upholding the code of conduct is crucial to ensuring that Supreme Court justices remain fair and impartial, regardless of their campaign financial backers.
In response to the allegations, the Schimel campaign issued a statement asserting that the judge has not made any direct solicitations for campaign donations. Schimel characterized the complaint as a “desperate attempt” to distract voters from his opponent, Judge Susan Crawford, who is backed by liberal organizations and Democrats. Schimel’s campaign argues that Crawford is attempting to leverage donor support in exchange for political favors, particularly regarding Congressional seats.
Judge Susan Crawford, who is also vying for a seat in the Supreme Court to replace retiring Justice Ann Walsh Bradley, publicly refuted Schimel’s claims. She was in Milwaukee on Tuesday to receive an endorsement from the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). During discussions with reporters, Crawford clarified that she did not suggest any plans regarding Congressional district maps during a recent donor advisory call. She stated, “I was not there to hear the rest of their agenda or the rest of their speakers,” and emphasized that redistricting was not a topic during her brief remarks.
Crawford also expressed concern over Schimel’s comments about fundraising, pointing out that they imply he is directly soliciting maximum contributions for his campaign. She affirmed her commitment to adhering to the rules that prohibit direct campaign solicitations.
Bryna Godar, a staff attorney at the State Democracy Research Initiative at the University of Wisconsin Law School, explained that the Wisconsin Judicial Commission has several options regarding the complaint against Schimel. They can either dismiss the complaint or choose to investigate it further, potentially leading to a hearing and referral to the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Godar noted that any disciplinary action could range from a warning letter to more severe consequences, including suspension or removal from the bench. However, she added that such severe outcomes are relatively rare and typically reserved for more egregious conduct, such as bribery.
As the April 1 election approaches, it appears uncertain whether the commission will resolve the complaint against Schimel before voters head to the polls. Meanwhile, the Wisconsin Democracy Campaign has expressed hope that the commission will act swiftly to address the matter.
Source: WUWM 89.7
