In a record-breaking election marked by astonishingly large spending and a clear message from voters, Wisconsin has rewarded liberal judge Susan Crawford with a sought-after 10-year spot on the state Supreme Court. With strong support from Democrats and a drive to secure a key 4-3 liberal majority, Crawford defeated former state attorney general and Trump-endorsed Brad Schimel by about 10 percentage points, winning 55% to Schimel’s 45%. What started as a quiet judicial contest quickly drew national attention when billionaire Elon Musk intervened. Musk poured between $15 and $21 million through various groups, even making a last-minute tour of Wisconsin while using social media to offer $100 giveaways for petition signers and handing out $1 million checks. Many saw his massive financial investment as turning a judicial race into a high-stakes political battle and increasing concerns about money in politics. On election night, Crawford summed up her journey, telling supporters, "As a little girl growing up in Chippewa Falls, I never could have imagined that I’d be competing against the world's richest man for justice in Wisconsin." Her heartfelt words touched voters who believe justice should not be bought. This win not only keeps a liberal majority on the court until the next judicial elections in 2026 but also makes the upcoming debates on abortion access, labor rights, and congressional redistricting even more important. Wisconsin has a history of backing liberal candidates even in high-stakes races, despite Republicans touting endorsements from figures like Trump and financial backing from influential allies like Musk. Brad Schimel, often seen wearing his "Make America Great Again" hat and leaning heavily on Trump’s support, acknowledged his defeat by saying, "I knew I had to put my all in." Yet, his focus on Trump’s endorsement and his attacks on Crawford’s record on crime weren’t enough to overcome voter weariness with big-money politics. Musk’s role became the most hotly debated angle of the race. While his supporters channeled an estimated $25 million into the campaign, Democrats fired back at his initiatives—targeting his ties with the Department of Government Efficiency and his plans to cut federal jobs—arguing that his flashy financial moves distracted from what really mattered. His claim that the contest would decide “the future of America and Western Civilization” failed to resonate with voters more concerned about everyday local issues. Voter turnout soared, with over 2.3 million votes cast—far surpassing previous Wisconsin Supreme Court races. In politically engaged regions like Dane County, Madison, and Milwaukee, Crawford not only captured a strong share of the vote but also outperformed figures like Kamala Harris in past elections. Key swing areas, such as the Driftless Area, saw record turnouts that helped secure her commanding victory. There are signs nationally that the political mood is shifting. In Florida’s recent special congressional elections in the 1st and 6th districts, Republicans won but by smaller margins than in the Trump era. Winners like Jimmy Patronis and Randy Fine won by modest double-digit leads, suggesting that voters may be shifting their allegiances. For Republicans, the clear takeaway is a warning: relying too much on big money and divisive figures like Musk risks alienating moderate voters. For Democrats and supporters of local control, this election proves that no amount of money can override the voters' choice. With the state Supreme Court now set to tackle cases that could reshape Wisconsin’s laws on abortion, labor rights, and redistricting, this victory will have a lasting impact. It highlights a key idea: even with enormous financial influence and grand claims, the strength of our democracy ultimately comes down to the voices of individual people and the power of local control—the very foundation of our free society.