Judge Maria Lazar, a conservative, announced on Wednesday her candidacy for the vacant seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court, previously held by Justice Rebecca Bradley.
This move sets the stage for a significant competition that could be pivotal for Republicans aiming to reclaim influence on the court after recent setbacks.
“I consider myself an independent and impartial judge focused on the law and the Constitution in every verdict I deliver. It’s crucial to restore that level of commitment to the court,” she mentioned in a four-minute ad, introducing herself to the electorate.
“This campaign is about bringing justice back to the Supreme Court, not about placing partisan politicians in judicial robes,” she added.
Lazar currently serves as a judge on the District 2 Court of Appeals and has a background as an aide to Waukesha County Circuit Court Judge and former state attorney general JB Van Hollen (R).
As Wisconsin’s Attorney General, she supported Republican measures concerning voter ID laws.
Notably, there are ongoing legal cases regarding state legislative maps and related laws.
She has also criticized her opponent, liberal appeals judge Chris Taylor, pointing to Taylor’s previous role as a Democratic legislator.
“I transitioned to a judgeship after a long legal career, while my opponent has always been a politician,” she noted.
“My opponents have spent years in Congress. I aim to be fair and independent, which is essential for justice,” she reinforced.
Following Bradley’s announcement in August that she would not seek reelection, both Taylor and Lazar are vying for the open position on the state Supreme Court. Currently, the court holds a 4-3 liberal majority, but Bradley’s retirement could shift that to 4-2.
This race has already attracted considerable attention, including notable fundraising efforts, with figures like Elon Musk involved earlier this year.
For conservatives, retaining Bradley’s seat is crucial to maintaining the current narrow liberal majority and preventing further shifts toward a stronger liberal dominance.
It remains uncertain if additional candidates will join the fray.
Interest is high among Republicans after several recent losses in state Supreme Court races, with Wisconsin being a key swing state where control of the Supreme Court is highly sought after.
Taylor’s campaign manager, Ashley Franz, quickly criticized Lazar, stating, “Like Rebecca Bradley, Maria Lazar has spent her career undermining people’s rights, attacking reproductive healthcare and voting rights, all while courting her wealthy allies.”
The competitive primary for the state Supreme Court is set for February 17, with the two top candidates advancing to the general election on April 7.
