Wisconsin Supreme Court Flips to Liberal Control for First Time in 15 Years

Madison, Wis. – A new era begins for the Wisconsin Supreme Court as it shifts from conservative to liberal control after 15 years. Janet Protasiewicz, who made abortion rights a central focus of her winning election campaign, was sworn in for her 10-year term in a ceremony at the state Capitol Rotunda. The event was attended by a large crowd, including many Democratic officeholders.

The changing dynamics of the court hold significant implications for Wisconsin, as the state Supreme Court has had the final say on major political and policy battles over the past decade. In fact, the conservative-dominated court nearly overturned President Joe Biden’s narrow win in Wisconsin during the 2020 election. Looking ahead to 2024, more battles over voting rules, elections, abortion bans, and political boundary lines are expected.

Protasiewicz, who formerly served as a Milwaukee County judge, reassured the public that she would not succumb to political pressure. In her speech, she emphasized the importance of protecting freedoms, maintaining a fair and impartial Supreme Court, and ensuring equal justice for all.

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by various state Democratic leaders and officeholders, including U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan, the Democratic secretary of state, the attorney general, and the three other liberal high court justices who now form the majority. Notably, conservative Justice Brian Hagedorn, who has occasionally sided with liberals, was also present.

Protasiewicz’s victory in the officially nonpartisan race was backed by Democrats, abortion rights groups, and other liberal organizations, raising expectations among liberals that the court will address issues such as the state’s abortion ban and redrawing electoral maps, leading to a potential shift of power in favor of Democrats.

The retirement of conservative Justice Pat Roggensack, who served on the court for 20 years, paved the way for Protasiewicz’s appointment. While it may take time for the court to deliberate on certain matters, a lawsuit challenging the GOP-drawn legislative and congressional district maps is expected to be filed soon. Additionally, there is an ongoing case questioning the state’s pre-Civil War era abortion ban.

The court is also likely to confront voting and election-related issues in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election. Last month, a national Democratic law firm filed a lawsuit seeking to overturn a Wisconsin Supreme Court ruling that banned absentee ballot drop boxes.

Democratic Senate Minority Leader Melissa Agard expressed her satisfaction with the court shifting to liberal control, stressing the critical timing of this change.

As the new liberal majority takes over, changes are already being implemented. Randy Koschnick, the director of state courts for six years, was informed that he would be terminated. Koschnick, who ran for state Supreme Court in 2009 but lost, claimed that his firing was due to the court “moving in a different direction,” as per liberal Justice Jill Karfosky.

In conclusion, the Wisconsin Supreme Court has undergone a significant transformation, with liberal control replacing conservative dominance. The court’s shift carries implications for the state’s political landscape and various key issues. As the new court grapples with upcoming challenges and cases, the decisions made will shape Wisconsin’s future, affecting everything from elections to abortion rights.