Lyndsey Brunette Announces Candidacy for Wisconsin Supreme Court

Clark County Circuit Court Judge Lyndsey Brunette has officially announced her candidacy for the Wisconsin Supreme Court, aiming to replace outgoing Justice Annette Ziegler, who is retiring. This announcement follows a recent election that saw a significant shift in the court's composition, with liberals gaining a 5-2 majority.

Liberal Judge Lyndsey Brunette announces 2027 Wisconsin Supreme Court campaign

The Wisconsin Supreme Court has experienced a notable transformation in recent years. The election of Justice Janet Protasiewicz in 2023 marked the first time in 15 years that liberals gained control of the court. With the recent victory of Justice-elect Chris Taylor, the liberal majority is expected to remain influential through at least 2030. Ziegler's retirement adds to a trend of conservative justices stepping down, indicating potential challenges for the conservative faction in future elections.

The Hill

Lyndsey Brunette, a Democrat, has a background as a former prosecutor and was the first woman elected as Clark County District Attorney in 2012. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and the William Mitchell College of Law. In her campaign announcement, Brunette emphasized her commitment to applying the law fairly and protecting individual rights, including health care and voting rights.

Liberal Judge Lyndsey Brunette announces 2027 Wisconsin Supreme Court campaign

In her campaign launch, Brunette stated, “Justice shouldn’t depend on who you are, your politics or how much money you have,” underscoring her belief in impartiality within the judicial system. She further asserted the importance of judges adhering to the law and respecting the Constitution.

The Hill

The conservative side of the Wisconsin Supreme Court has faced difficulties in attracting candidates, particularly in light of demographic shifts that may favor liberal candidates in upcoming elections. The retirements of Ziegler and former Justice Rebecca Bradley reflect a broader acknowledgment of the challenges conservatives may face in regaining control of the court.

Liberal Judge Lyndsey Brunette announces 2027 Wisconsin Supreme Court campaign

Brunette's candidacy sets the stage for a competitive race in the 2027 Wisconsin Supreme Court election. As she seeks to solidify the liberal majority, the dynamics of the race will likely hinge on the ability of conservative candidates to mobilize support amid changing voter demographics.

Liberal Judge Lyndsey Brunette announces 2027 Wisconsin Supreme Court campaign

• “Today, on the bench, I make sure the law is applied fairly and equally because in our courts, justice shouldn’t depend on who you are, your politics or how much money you have,” — Lyndsey Brunette, Clark County Circuit Court Judge

The Hill

• “Judges should follow the facts and the law, respect the Constitution and protect the rights and freedoms of everyone.” — Lyndsey Brunette, Clark County Circuit Court Judge

Liberal Judge Lyndsey Brunette announces 2027 Wisconsin Supreme Court campaign