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Voters Just Shut Down Elon Musk’s Millions

April 2, 2025
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April 02, 2025 09:00 AM PST

(PenniesToSave.com) – A major shift in judicial power just happened in Wisconsin, and it is sending shockwaves across the nation. Liberal Judge Susan Crawford defeated conservative Judge Brad Schimel in a high-stakes race for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court. While elections for judges usually fly under the radar, this one turned into a national showdown with nearly $100 million spent to influence the outcome.

The race pitted two billionaires against each other in an unprecedented battle for judicial influence. Elon Musk backed Schimel. George Soros supported Crawford. In the end, voters rejected Musk’s flashy campaign, massive ad spending, and even cash incentives. What happened in Wisconsin wasn’t just a local result—it was a signal that average Americans still have the power to decide who governs them.

The Price of Influence: Musk vs. Soros in a Battle for the Court

The Wisconsin Supreme Court race became the most expensive judicial contest in U.S. history. Reports indicate that nearly $100 million was spent by both sides. What made this race unique wasn’t just the money but who was spending it. Two of the world’s most recognizable billionaires put their weight behind opposing candidates.

Elon Musk, through his America PAC, spent more than $21 million in support of Judge Brad Schimel. The PAC saturated media channels with digital and TV ads, held pro-Schimel rallies, and even launched a controversial initiative that offered Wisconsin voters $100 if they signed a petition against “activist judges.” Musk himself made appearances, framing the race as a battle to restore constitutional values in state courts.

On the other side, George Soros and his Open Society network backed Judge Susan Crawford. More than $29 million flowed through affiliated organizations like the American Constitution Society and Justice Wisconsin Now. These groups pushed a progressive agenda focused on abortion access, redistricting reforms, and “protecting democracy.”

The rest of the spending came from Washington-based political organizations and activist coalitions with little local connection. In total, outside money dominated the conversation, raising serious questions about the integrity and independence of state-level judicial races.

What This Means for Everyday Americans

For the average American, this wasn’t just about one seat on a state court. The implications are far-reaching. First, this race proved that big money doesn’t always win. Despite the most expensive judicial campaign in history and Musk’s high-profile involvement, voters were not swayed by financial power alone. In the end, Wisconsin voters made up their own minds.

Second, the decisions made by this court will affect real-world issues that impact everyday people. The Wisconsin Supreme Court is expected to take up cases involving abortion restrictions, election integrity laws, voter ID enforcement, and legislative redistricting. These rulings will set legal precedents that could spread to other swing states and potentially influence national policy.

Finally, this race served as a warning to conservatives. While the right had the backing of a wealthy, influential supporter in Musk, the results showed that ground game and grassroots voter turnout still matter more than name recognition and tech dollars. If conservatives want to shape the judiciary in future cycles, they will need to refocus on local organizing and judicial transparency.

Elon Musk’s Loss: A Populist Rejection of Billionaire Politics

Elon Musk’s deep involvement in the Wisconsin race turned what might have been a routine election into a media firestorm. Musk’s strategy was bold and highly visible. He offered voters cash incentives, livestreamed campaign messages, and aligned himself with a broader fight against what he called “judicial activism.”

But the results were clear. Voters took the money, listened to the ads, and ultimately voted against his candidate. That speaks volumes. It shows that while billionaires may dominate headlines and ad buys, they do not automatically win the hearts and minds of working-class Americans. This could mark a shift in how voters perceive celebrity-backed political efforts.

The rejection of Musk’s influence may also change how political consultants view future elections. It is a reminder that attempting to buy influence, even in judicial contests, can backfire. Voters still want integrity in their courts, not campaign theatrics.

Final Thoughts

The Wisconsin Supreme Court election was not just a state matter. It was a national moment that reflected the broader tension between elite influence and grassroots power. Despite nearly $100 million spent, including heavy investments from Elon Musk and George Soros, voters made a clear statement: outside money does not guarantee victory.

For everyday Americans, the takeaway is simple. Your vote still matters. No amount of money can silence an engaged and informed electorate. If conservatives want to secure lasting change in state courts, it will require more than endorsements and big checks. It will require showing up, speaking out, and staying vigilant.

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