A recent poll conducted by the Institute for Reforming Government (IRG) shows Waukesha County Circuit Court Judge Brad Schimel in the lead in the early stages of the 2025 Wisconsin Supreme Court race. The poll, executed by Napolitan News Service, surveyed 800 registered voters between January 17 and January 21, 2025, with a margin of error of +/- 3.5%.
According to the poll, Schimel holds a 40% support rate compared to his opponent, Dane county Judge Susan Crawford, who stands at 35%. A significant 23% of voters remain undecided, suggesting a potential shift in the race as the election approaches.
Voter Preferences and Judicial Philosophy:
The IRG findings reveal that an overwhelming 91% of Wisconsin voters prefer Supreme Court Justices who base their decisions strictly on constitutional law rather than personal political views. When it comes to candidate selection criteria, 52% of voters prioritize candidates who focus on issues important to them, while 27% favor those who advocate for a tough stance on crime.
Key Policy Issues:
The poll highlighted a strong voter inclination towards legislative oversight over bureaucratic power, with 32% supporting the legislature in making crucial policy decisions, contrasting sharply with only 8% who believe state agency bureaucrats should have this authority. Additionally, 76% of respondents believe that voters and elected officials should have the opportunity to challenge regulations.
On specific legislative support, 47% back candidates who support Act 10, which limits collective bargaining for public employees, compared to 37% who oppose. In terms of social issues, a strong majority favor allowing abortions up to 20 weeks, rather than upholding a complete ban on the procedure.
Election Integrity Concerns:
Voting methods also came under scrutiny, with 49% of voters expressing concerns that mobile voting units could lead to election fraud and might give an unfair advantage to certain candidates. Moreover, nearly half of the respondents disapproved of the liberal Supreme Court’s 2024 decision to reverse a previous ruling on drop boxes. The reversal made absentee ballot drop boxes legal just before the 2024 elections.
Impact on the Supreme Court Race:
This poll not only outlines voter sentiment on major issues but also underscores the dynamics that could influence the outcome of the April 1st Supreme Court election in Wisconsin. With a significant portion of voters still undecided, the coming weeks will be critical for both campaigns to sway public opinion. Schimel, with his early lead, will likely focus on reinforcing his commitment to judicial restraint and law-based decision-making, while Mitchell will need to address voter concerns about election integrity and judicial philosophy to close the gap.
For more detailed insights into the IRG’s findings, visit their official website. The results from this poll could set the tone for the rest of the campaign season, highlighting what Wisconsin voters truly value in their judicial representatives.
