Brad Schimel, a veteran of Wisconsin’s legal system and former state attorney general, has officially entered the race for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court. With a career spanning decades in public service, Schimel brings a wealth of experience and a track record that highlights his deep connection to Wisconsin’s legal landscape.
Schimel’s legal career began in the Waukesha County District Attorney’s office, where he served as a prosecutor for over 25 years. His work focused on issues ranging from drug-related crimes to child safety cases, earning him recognition as a dedicated advocate for justice. In 2006, he was elected Waukesha County District Attorney, a position he held until his election as Wisconsin Attorney General in 2014.
As attorney general, Schimel spearheaded initiatives to address the opioid crisis, expand treatment alternatives for offenders, and improve the state’s response to public safety threats. Under his leadership, Wisconsin’s Department of Justice prioritized efforts to combat human trafficking and launched programs aimed at supporting victims of crime.
Schimel’s judicial philosophy, as he has articulated in past statements, emphasizes a commitment to the rule of law and judicial restraint. He has expressed a belief in interpreting the law as written, rather than shaping policy from the bench. Supporters say this approach aligns with the need for stability and predictability in legal rulings.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court race has drawn significant attention, as the court often hears cases with statewide implications, ranging from redistricting to public policy challenges. Schimel’s entry into the race is expected to add depth to the ongoing discussion about the role of the judiciary in shaping Wisconsin’s legal and political future.
The term of Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Ann Walsh Bradley will expire on July 31, 2025, with her seat up for nonpartisan election on April 1, 2025, and a primary scheduled for February 18, 2025. Justice Bradley, a member of the court’s liberal majority who was first elected in 1995, announced on April 11, 2024, that she would not seek re-election. Her retirement opens the door for a highly competitive race, especially given the court’s current 4-3 liberal majority established after Janet Protasiewicz’s election in 2023 over Daniel Kelly. The race is anticipated to draw significant national attention and funding.
As the campaign unfolds, voters will likely hear more about Schimel’s extensive legal background and his vision for the state’s highest court. The race is shaping up to be a closely watched contest, highlighting the importance of the Wisconsin Supreme Court in interpreting and upholding the state’s laws, and control of Wisconsin’s top court.