Why Elon Musk cares so much about a Wisconsin Supreme Court seat
Digest
This podcast analyzes the Wisconsin Supreme Court election, framing it as a significant proxy battle reflecting larger political conflicts. Elon Musk's substantial financial backing of conservative candidate Brad Schimel is a central theme, raising questions about campaign finance legality and his motivations. The election's importance stems from its impact on redistricting, with concerns about its influence on future congressional districts and the 2024 elections. The podcast profiles both candidates, Schimel (conservative) and Crawford (Democrat), highlighting the non-partisan nature of the race despite strong party endorsements. Musk's potential business interests in Wisconsin, particularly his lawsuit against the state, are explored alongside his broader political goals. The Democratic strategy of portraying Musk as the antagonist is discussed, aiming to mobilize their base and sway undecided voters. While significant campaign spending is noted on both sides, the podcast emphasizes that financial resources are relatively even, suggesting other factors will influence the outcome. Finally, the election is analyzed as a potential "test case" for Trump's ongoing influence and a preview of future electoral battles.
Outlines

The Wisconsin Supreme Court Election: A Proxy Battle for Control
The Wisconsin Supreme Court election is presented as a pivotal contest, significantly influenced by Elon Musk's substantial financial support for the conservative candidate, Brad Schimel. This support is analyzed in the context of broader political battles and potential implications for redistricting and future elections.

Elon Musk's Intervention and its Legal Ramifications
The podcast details Elon Musk's extensive campaign contributions and tactics, including cash giveaways to voters, and discusses the ongoing legal challenges surrounding these actions. His rally in Green Bay and further financial incentives are also highlighted.

Candidate Profiles, Redistricting, and Future Implications
The candidates, Brad Schimel and Susan Crawford, are introduced, along with their political affiliations. The crucial role of the Supreme Court race in redistricting and its potential impact on the 2024 elections are explained. The Democrats' strategy of using Musk's controversial image against him is also discussed.

Campaign Finance, Strategies, and Long-Term Outlook
The podcast examines the substantial campaign spending on both sides, acknowledging the even financial resources despite Musk's significant contributions. The race's potential implications for Trump's future influence and the broader political landscape are analyzed, emphasizing the election as a precursor to future midterms.
Keywords
Redistricting
The redrawing of electoral district boundaries, significantly impacting political power and representation.
Elon Musk
Billionaire entrepreneur whose significant financial support for a Wisconsin Supreme Court candidate has made him a central figure in the election.
Wisconsin Supreme Court Election
A key electoral contest viewed as a proxy battle between Democrats and Republicans, with implications for redistricting and future elections.
Brad Schimel
Conservative candidate in the Wisconsin Supreme Court election, supported by Elon Musk.
Susan Crawford
Democratic candidate in the Wisconsin Supreme Court election.
Campaign Finance
The laws and regulations governing the raising and spending of money in political campaigns.
Proxy Battle
A political contest where the underlying conflict is masked by a seemingly unrelated issue.
2024 Elections
The upcoming presidential election, whose outcome may be influenced by the results of the Wisconsin Supreme Court race.
Q&A
What is the significance of the Wisconsin Supreme Court race beyond the state level?
The race is a proxy battle, a test of Trump's influence, and a potential indicator of voter sentiment heading into 2024, impacting redistricting.
Why is Elon Musk involved in this election?
Musk's involvement stems from supporting conservative causes, concerns about redistricting, and his legal battle with Wisconsin over Tesla dealerships.
What are Democrats' strategies to counter Musk's influence?
Democrats aim to frame Musk as the villain, using his unpopularity to mobilize their base and sway undecided voters.
Is the election outcome solely determined by campaign spending?
While significant, campaign spending is unlikely to be the sole determinant; voter turnout and other factors will play crucial roles.
What are the potential long-term implications of this election?
The results could reveal the effectiveness of campaign strategies, Trump's influence, and the political climate heading into future elections, impacting redistricting.
Show Notes
Conservative judicial candidate Brad Schimel and Democratic-backed judge Susan Crawford are the ones on the ballot in Tuesday’s election. But it’s Elon Musk who’s drawing outsized attention in the race for an open seat on Wisconsin’s Supreme Court.
That’s because the billionaire and his super PAC are pumping money into a race that Republicans claim could decide the fate of the country. Democrats, meanwhile, are also spending millions, hoping that painting Musk as the ultimate villain of the race will inspire their base to turnout.
Host Colby Itkowitz speaks to Wisconsin-based reporter Patrick Marley about how the cash is being spent and the strategy behind it all.
Today’s show was produced by Laura Benshoff. It was edited by Reena Flores and mixed by Sean Carter. Thanks to Dan Eggen.
Subscribe to The Washington Post here.






















