On Monday, February 10, 2025, The Center Square reported that the two candidates vying for a position on the Wisconsin Supreme Court, Judge Susan Crawford and Judge Brad Schimel, discussed significant legal issues affecting the state, including the controversial Act 10 and abortion rights. The two judges participated in separate interviews during the UpFront program on Milwaukee TV, highlighting their differing views on these critical topics.

Judge Brad Schimel, representing Waukesha County and identifying as a conservative, addressed the implications of Act 10, which has seen various legal challenges since its enactment in 2011. Schimel clarified that he had no involvement in the initial legal battles surrounding the law, stating, “I didn’t have any involvement in Act 10. By the time I was elected attorney general, the cases were all done in the Supreme Court and the federal courts.” He expressed that if any lingering challenges existed, he had not played a direct role in them.

In contrast, Judge Susan Crawford of Dane County discussed her previous participation in legal actions against Act 10. She represented public school teachers in a challenge to the law, emphasizing her commitment to defending their rights. Crawford noted the complexity of Act 10, describing it as a lengthy bill that amended multiple provisions of Wisconsin statutes. “If there were another case presented to me involving some part of Act 10, I would look at which part is being challenged there,” she stated. She indicated that she would assess her ability to remain impartial before deciding on any potential recusal.

Crawford’s history also includes her representation of Planned Parenthood in Wisconsin before her judicial appointment. When questioned about her stance on abortion cases, she refrained from committing to a recusal policy, asserting her pride in her past work defending healthcare rights for women. “I’m proud of the work that I did as a lawyer in our courts fighting for people’s rights,” she remarked.

Similarly, Schimel, who identifies as pro-life, asserted that he does not foresee the need to recuse himself from abortion-related cases should they arise during his tenure. He acknowledged the importance of respecting the law and the voters’ will concerning abortion. “I treasure life even when it’s not planned, but I respect that the law puts this in the hands of voters, and I will respect their will,” he commented, emphasizing his commitment to constitutional values and the separation of powers.

As the election approaches in April, the candidates are focused on several critical issues, including recusal policies and their broader implications for the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The outcome of this race could significantly influence the court’s ideological balance, determining whether it maintains its liberal majority or shifts toward conservative control.

With the election drawing near, both candidates are expected to continue articulating their positions on these pivotal topics, as they seek to sway voter opinion in a highly contested judicial race.

 

 

Source: The Center Square