Susan Crawford commences her tenure on the highest judicial bench in Wisconsin
New Justice Susan Crawford Sworn in to Wisconsin Supreme Court
Susan M. Crawford officially joined the Wisconsin Supreme Court on August 1, 2025, marking a significant shift in the court's composition. Crawford, a seasoned lawyer with a background in criminal appeals, state government legal counsel, and circuit court judging, brings a progressive approach to labor, voting, and environmental matters.
Crawford's election victory secured a 4-3 liberal majority on the court, a change from the previous balance. She defeated conservative candidate Brad Schimel in April, ensuring a continuation and potential expansion of liberal jurisprudence on major policy-related cases before the court.
During her investiture ceremony at the State Capitol, Crawford acknowledged the significance of her new role, stating, "The questions that come before the court still shape and project our democracy, our communities, and the rights of everyone who calls Wisconsin home."
Ann Walsh Bradley, who retired from the Wisconsin Supreme Court after serving 30 years on the court, congratulated Crawford and encouraged unity, saying, "Let us move forward, together."
Crawford's legal career has been marked by her advocacy for labor unions, women's rights, voting rights, and public education. As a lawyer, she represented Planned Parenthood and a group of teachers suing to overturn parts of Act 10.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court could hear cases on congressional maps, voting, labor rights, and environmental protections in the next year. Crawford's influence in these key areas is anticipated given her background and campaign support.
This ceremony also marked Chief Justice Ann Walsh Bradley's retirement, after serving 30 years on the court. The Wisconsin Supreme Court will now be composed of Crawford, along with three other liberal justices and two conservative justices.
Crawford is ready to get to work for the great people of Wisconsin. With elections for the state's highest court every year for the next four years, the future of the Wisconsin Supreme Court is set to be an interesting one.
- Crawford's election victory marks a shift in the Wisconsin Supreme Court, aligning it more strongly with progressive policy-and-legislation on issues such as labor, voting, and environmental matters.
- Politics surrounding the Wisconsin Supreme Court will remain of general-news interest due to the potential for decisions on challenging cases like congressional maps, voting rights, labor rights, and environmental protections in the coming year.
