Judge Chris Taylor soars to victory in Wisconsin Supreme Court race

Liberal judge Chris Taylor has defeated conservative judge Maria Lazar in Tuesday’s Wisconsin Supreme Court race.

The votes are still being tallied, but the race has been called by Decision Desk HQ. With about 85% of the vote in, Taylor had a commanding 59.8% of the vote.

The seat was open due to decision by incumbent conservative Justice Rebecca Bradley not to seek reelection. And with Taylor’s victory, liberals will now likely control the court by a 5-2 margin for several years.

“Tonight, the people of Wisconsin stood up for our rights and freedoms, our democracy, our elections and a strong state Supreme Court that will protect the independence of our beloved state,” Taylor said during her victory speech in Madison.

Taylor said Lazar called her to concede the race.

It was a really good night for the former circuit court judge and Democratic legislator. Taylor had surprising results all throughout Wisconsin, including an overwhelming victory in Kenosha County, where President Donald Trump won the county in 2024.

It’s typical of the swing state to garner national attention, including from the likes of former Attorney General Eric Holder and soon-to-be trillionaire Elon Musk. For years court races weren’t partisan but they’ve become increasingly partisan in recent years.

“I’m so happy and so in awe of the young people who powered my campaign,” Taylor said. “You all are the future of our state.”

The full picture on turnout wasn’t immediately clear, but with 82% of the vote in, Taylor was winning Milwaukee County 74-26.

Early voting headed into Election Day was down about 59% in Milwaukee County.