Wisconsin Democrats Send a Message to Elon Musk - and the World

Grassroots activists in Wisconsin just beat Elon Musk and his millions

Man, winning feels good.

Last night, Susan Crawford defeated Brad Schimel in the crucial Wisconsin Supreme Court race. This is a huge — and needed — win. All credit goes to Crawford, Ben Wikler, and engaged Wisconsinites. It’s remarkable that they got up off the ground, dusted themselves off, and went back to work only a few months after the devastating election loss in November. They are true warriors for democracy. This is also a huge defeat for the Wisconsin Republicans, Donald Trump, and especially Elon Musk, who spent well north of $20 million supporting Schimel.

Thanks to Crawford’s win, Liberals will maintain the majority on the Supreme Court. Their presence is critical for abortion access, civil rights, personal freedom, and election integrity. One can only imagine the damage a MAGA court bought and paid for by Elon Musk would do in the 2028 presidential election.

But the impact of this tremendous win goes well beyond Wisconsin.

1. Wind in Democrats’ Sails

It’s a brutal time to be a Democrat. Trump, Musk, and the Republicans have been destroying so much of what we care about. Democracy is under assault, and much of our party leadership is adrift and unable to meet the moment with strength and clarity. This sentiment was driven home by Senator Schumer’s capitulation on the government funding bill.

We needed this win. It was proof that good, old-fashioned politics can still work. This election's message is that grassroots activism can defeat the deep pockets of the world’s richest man.

2. The Anti-Musk Strategy Works

The Wisconsin race was the proving ground for one of Democrats’ emerging strategies for Democrats — focus on the chaos and corruption of Elon Musk.

The world’s richest man made the race about himself when he decided to spend millions of dollars to elect Schimel because Tesla was suing Wisconsin over a car dealership law.