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Taylor's Decisive Victory
Chris Taylor secured a 10-year term with a commanding 20-percentage-point victory over conservative Maria Lazar.
“Democratic-backed Chris Taylor won election to the Wisconsin Supreme Court, growing the liberal majority on the court”
The liberal majority expanded to 5-2, pushing conservatives to their lowest level since 1934.
Taylor won 60% of the vote in a state where recent presidential elections have often been decided by less than 1 percent.
The election result was an outlier in a state known for close races.
This marked the third liberal victory in a Supreme Court election in the last four years.
Implications for Wisconsin Law
Taylor's victory comes as the court prepares to consider high-stakes issues in Wisconsin.
One of the earliest tests may involve congressional redistricting.
The court could also face disputes over election results and abortion rights.
The liberal majority has started undoing more than a decade of conservative laws.
Campaign Dynamics
Taylor's victory was powered by a campaign that emphasized abortion and voting rights.
“Democratic and Democratic-aligned candidates have won 19 of the last 24 statewide races in Wisconsin”
She held massive fundraising advantages over Lazar.
The race was far quieter and less expensive than the previous two elections.
Lazar conceded, saying she ran with honesty and integrity.
Taylor's victory marked the 19th statewide victory for Democratic-aligned candidates since 2017.