When most people think about elections, they think about November: yard signs, campaign ads and national headlines. But in Wisconsin, some important decisions happen during our spring elections, which often receive far less attention.
This April, voters will elect the next justice to the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The position carries a 10-year term and plays an important role in interpreting Wisconsin law. Two current Court of Appeals judges are running for the seat.
Judge Chris Taylor serves on the Court of Appeals in District IV based in Madison. Before joining the appellate bench, she served as a judge for the Dane County Circuit Court and previously represented Madison in the Wisconsin Assembly. Taylor has drawn support from many progressive and Democratic-aligned organizations.
Judge Maria Lazar serves on the Court of Appeals in District II in southeastern Wisconsin and previously served as a circuit court judge in Waukesha county. Lazar has received backing from conservative legal groups and Republican-leaning supporters.
Although Wisconsin Supreme Court races are officially nonpartisan, candidates often receive support from organizations and donors aligned with broader political viewpoints.
In recent years, these races have become highly contentious and extremely expensive, drawing national attention and significant outside spending. This year’s race has been somewhat quieter by comparison. Candidates are still raising money and organizations remain engaged, but the level of spending and national spotlight has been lower so far. Even so, the court’s role remains significant. The Wisconsin Supreme Court decides cases involving election law, regulations, property rights and disputes over state policy. Justices serve long terms, and their decisions can shape Wisconsin law for years.
As the April election approaches, it is a reminder that staying engaged in Wisconsin’s nonpartisan elections matters. Even when the balance of the court is not dramatically shifting, the justices elected today will influence the state for years to come.
