Favre Endorses Schimel in Wisconsin Supreme Court Race, Framing it as Crucial for State’s Future
Former Green Bay Packers quarterback icon Brett Favre has thrown his considerable weight behind Brad Schimel in the heated race for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Favre’s endorsement, delivered with characteristic fervor, underscores the high stakes perceived by conservatives in this election, framing it as a battle for the very soul of the state.
Favre publicly urged Wisconsin residents to cast their ballots for Schimel on April 1st, emphasizing the election’s significance. "The future of Wisconsin is at stake here," Favre stated. "This is as important as the November election, and that was for the soul of America. This is for the soul of Wisconsin. Your vote for Brad Schimel will keep Wisconsin and America winning. And you know I know a little bit of something about winning. When folks like you vote, America and Wisconsin win."
Favre’s endorsement isn’t entirely unexpected, given his previous foray into the political arena. He notably endorsed Donald Trump for president during the 2024 campaign cycle, even appearing at a rally held in Wisconsin in support of the Republican candidate. This alignment with conservative figures further solidifies Favre’s position as a prominent voice within the Republican sphere.
Brad Schimel himself brings a wealth of experience to the table. He previously served as Wisconsin’s Attorney General and currently holds the position of a judge in Waukesha County. Republicans are positioning Schimel as a bulwark against what they perceive as a growing liberal influence within the state’s judiciary.
The Republican party has issued stark warnings about Schimel’s opponent, Susan Crawford, a Dane County judge. They characterize her as a dangerously liberal candidate, favored by the Democratic party. A key concern raised by Republicans is that Crawford, if elected, might support efforts to redraw U.S. House districts in a way that could potentially unseat two Republican representatives. This highlights the potential for the Supreme Court race to have a significant impact on the state’s political landscape, extending beyond legal matters and influencing the balance of power in Congress.
The race is attracting significant attention and funding, recognized for its potential national effects, particularly concerning redistricting, union issues, and controversial topics surrounding transgender individuals.
Republicans have actively sought to paint Crawford as a radical choice for the Supreme Court. They point to her purported support from billionaire George Soros and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as evidence of her liberal leanings. Furthermore, they criticize her alleged ties to activist groups that advocate for gender-transition surgeries for minors and the inclusion of biological men in women’s sports. These accusations serve to portray Crawford as out of step with the values of many Wisconsin voters, particularly those on the conservative side of the political spectrum.
One source close to the race cautioned against Crawford’s candidacy, characterizing it as part of an ongoing "radical" shift in Wisconsin. They drew parallels to the contentious election of liberal Justice Janet Protasiewicz in 2023 and Governor Tony Evers’ controversial decision to replace the word "mother" with "inseminated person" dozens of times in the state budget. These examples are used to illustrate what Republicans perceive as a growing trend towards progressive policies that threaten traditional values.
Beyond her alleged affiliations, Republicans have also criticized Crawford’s past actions, accusing her of signaling a willingness to "legislate from the bench." They cite her previous involvement in challenging the state’s voter ID law and her appearance at a January event hosted by a liberal donor group that aims to unseat Republican Reps. Bryan Steil and Derrick Van Orden. These actions are portrayed as evidence that Crawford would be an activist judge, willing to impose her own political views on the law rather than simply interpreting it.
Donald Trump himself has also officially endorsed Schimel, lending his support through a post on Truth Social. This further elevates the profile of the race and solidifies its status as a key battleground in the broader national political landscape.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court race is shaping up to be a closely watched contest with potentially far-reaching consequences. The stark contrast between Schimel and Crawford, coupled with the high-profile endorsements and passionate rhetoric surrounding the election, underscores the deep divisions within the state and the importance of the court in shaping its future. With issues ranging from redistricting to social policy at stake, the outcome of this election will undoubtedly have a significant impact on Wisconsin for years to come.
