NE Wisconsin News

Diane Bast, a resident of Appleton, Wisconsin, expressed her support for Brad Schimel in the upcoming Wisconsin Supreme Court election. She said she would vote for him because he "supports the rule of law over politics and pandering." Bast provided her statement to the NE Wisconsin News on March 19.

"Candidates for State Supreme Court should not telegraph during their campaign how they'll vote on specific issues," said Bast, Appleton, WI resident. "The facts of each individual case, as it comes before the Court, should drive their decision-making. Brad Schimel is the only candidate in this race who supports the Rule of Law above politics and pandering. For me, this election -- both the State Supreme Court and the State Superintendent of Instruction -- is about school choice. I support Brad Schimel and Brittany Kinser because I am confident they will work hard to protect the fundamental right of parents to direct the education of their children, including the schools their children attend."

Brad Schimel, a former Wisconsin Attorney General and current Waukesha County Circuit Court judge, is set to compete against Susan Crawford, a Dane County Circuit Court judge, in the election scheduled for April 1. According to Ballotpedia, the court currently holds a 4-3 liberal majority. The retirement of Justice Ann Walsh Bradley makes this seat competitive. A victory for Crawford would maintain the liberal majority.

According to AP News, Susan Crawford has faced criticism from Republicans after attending a briefing with Democratic donors. During this event, it was suggested that redrawing congressional districts could aid Democrats in gaining House seats in future elections. Republicans accuse Crawford of being willing to manipulate district lines for political gain and claim she is beholden to liberal elites.

The upcoming election could significantly impact school choice policies in Wisconsin. As reported by Wisconsin Family Action, the court has previously ruled on education funding and voucher program disputes, making its ideological balance crucial. If Schimel wins, the court may protect and expand school choice initiatives. Conversely, a liberal shift could lead to challenges against voucher programs and charter school funding.

Schimel has expressed concerns about potential changes if Crawford is elected. According to Wisconsin Independent, he said that her election could lead to the elimination of school choice in the state. His campaign website warns that "If the left wins in April they will ... eliminate school choice ... overturn Right to Work, remove voter ID."