This spring, eyes are on an important election in Wisconsin for a seat on the state Supreme Court. That’s because spending on the race, which will determine the ideological balance of the court, could potentially với tới a record-breaking $100 million. 

One of the biggest donors is none other than Elon Musk, world’s richest man, CEO of Tesla, and head of “DOGE.” By pouring millions into this election, Musk has a chance to boost his business and expand his political power, shaping the courts and state governments to serve his own interests, at the expense of Wisconsinites and the American people at large.

Tesla Hits Roadblocks Setting Up Shop in Wisconsin

Wisconsin, like many states, has a law that stops car manufacturers from selling cars directly to customers. Instead, they have to go through dealerships. Tesla has been trying to get around this law, but so far, Wisconsin has refused to grant them an exemption. Now, Musk is backing a judge who could change that.

In January, Tesla filed a petition for a judicial review of the state’s decision. The case could potentially reach the state Supreme Court, where by law, judges are not required to recuse themselves from cases where a party has given an endorsement or legal campaign donations. The candidate Musk is backing hasn’t said he would step aside if Musk’s case were to reach the state Supreme Court.

A favorable ruling on this case could really help Tesla expand their market, especially since the company saw its first annual sales decline in 2024, with markets like California and Europe experiencing slumps. Tesla believes that sales in Wisconsin would grow if they were allowed to operate their own dealerships in the state.

Musk Also Seeks to Expand His Political Influence

The more judges Musk helps elect, the more power he has to shape laws across the country. His growing influence over the courts could help clear the way for his authoritarian agenda, weaken government agencies, and make it easier to challenge election results. 

Musk himself is spreading falsehoods about voter fraud in his efforts to support his preferred candidate’s campaign. On X, he posted: “Very important to vote Republican for the Wisconsin Supreme Court to prevent voting fraud!” 

But there is no evidence of widespread election fraud in Wisconsin. What Musk likely wants is a court that will support Trump and his allies if they try to overturn election results in 2028. 

The makeup of Wisconsin’s highest court could have a big impact when it comes to national elections. It’s one of the closest swing states in the country, where five of the last seven presidential races have been decided by fewer than 30,000 votes.

Consequences for Regular People

Many Wisconsinites fear that a Musk-supported majority would put several key issues on the chopping block.

If the candidate Musk is backing wins a seat on Wisconsin’s Supreme Court, it could impact abortion rights, workers’ protections, and congressional redistricting. These are critical issues that affect everyday people, but Musk is using his wealth to stack the deck in favor of his own interests.

Wisconsinites From Both Sides of the Aisle Sound the Alarm

There are both Democrats and Republicans that have concerns about what Musk’s money and influence will do to the state’s government. Wisconsin Democrats have called out Musk for undermining fair elections, attacking workers’ rights, and pushing an extreme agenda that puts corporate power over democracy.

And some conservatives, like Wisconsin commentator Charlie Sykes, warn that Musk’s spending isn’t just about business – it’s about controlling politics. By getting so deeply involved in this race, Musk is making it clear that he’s willing to use his fortune to reshape state governments and pressure politicians who don’t support his agenda.

Musk Can’t Be Allowed to Buy the Courts

If Elon Musk gets his way, Wisconsin’s highest court will no longer serve the people – it will serve him. Judges are supposed to fairly interpret the law, not prioritize the interests of billionaire donors.

This isn’t just about one race. It’s about whether we let one of the richest men in the world tip the scales of justice in his favor. If Musk can buy the courts in Wisconsin, what’s stopping him from doing the same across the country?

Wisconsin voters can override Musk’s millions by turning out in force – return your absentee ballot on time or vote in person on April 1st, because at the ballot box, your voice is worth much more than his money.