Wisconsin voters are gearing up for two high-profile races in 2025 that will have a lasting impact on the state’s judicial and educational systems. The primary election is scheduled for February 18, with the general election to follow on April 1. Both races are drawing significant attention, setting the stage for critical decisions about the state’s future.

Supreme Court Race

The Wisconsin Supreme Court race is expected to once again draw national attention—and big money. With decisions on abortion, redistricting, and union rights potentially on the docket, the stakes are as high as ever.

Judge Janet Crawford of Dane County is running to maintain the court’s liberal majority. Backed by the Democratic Party and the court’s liberal justices, Crawford is focusing her campaign on continuing what she describes as recent progress in upholding the rule of law.

On the other side, Judge Brad Schimel of Waukesha County is positioning himself as a conservative counterbalance to the current court. Schimel served as the state’s Attorney General and has pledged to restore what he calls impartiality and fairness to the bench, emphasizing his commitment to public safety and the rule of law.

State Superintendent Race

In the race for State Superintendent of Public Instruction, voters will choose between two education leaders with differing visions for Wisconsin schools.

Jill Underly, the incumbent, is seeking a second term. Backed by the Wisconsin Democratic Party, she has focused her tenure on increasing funding for public education, expanding mental health resources, and ensuring inclusivity in schools.

Her challenger, Jeff Wright, superintendent of the Sauk Prairie School District, is calling for stronger communication and collaboration between the Department of Public Instruction and schools. Wright, endorsed by the Wisconsin Education Association Council PAC, has emphasized the need to address teacher recruitment challenges and funding issues.