“I think what came out of the debate was just a real contrast between myself and my opponent,” stated Chris Taylor, a candidate in the upcoming Wisconsin Supreme Court election. This election, set for April 7, 2026, is pivotal as it could reshape the balance of power on the court.
Chris Taylor, 58, currently serves as a judge on the Madison-based District 4 Court of Appeals and is viewed as the liberal candidate in the race. In contrast, her opponent, Maria Lazar, 62, is a judge on the Waukesha-based District 2 Court of Appeals and represents the conservative side. The stakes are high, as the current Wisconsin Supreme Court holds a 4-3 liberal majority.
If Taylor secures a victory, the liberal majority would expand to 5-2, while a win for Lazar would maintain the status quo. Taylor has raised approximately $6.2 million for her campaign, significantly outpacing Lazar, who has raised about $1.2 million.
Despite the financial advantages, early voting turnout has been notably lower compared to previous elections, with only 324,000 early ballots returned so far. This trend has raised concerns among political analysts about voter engagement.
During the recent debate held on April 2, 2026, Taylor emphasized the importance of maintaining a fair and independent judiciary. “After ending the conservative stranglehold on our judiciary, Wisconsinites have gotten used to having a fair and independent state Supreme Court that protects the constitutional rights of all Wisconsinites and keeps extremists in check,” remarked Melissa Moore Baldauff, a supporter of Taylor.
As the election approaches, the candidates are ramping up their campaigns, with Taylor’s strategy focusing on contrasting her judicial philosophy with that of Lazar. “My opponent, point blank, lied,” Taylor asserted, underscoring the contentious nature of this election.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court race is the only statewide race in the April 7 election, making it a focal point for voters across the state. As the date draws near, both candidates will likely intensify their efforts to sway undecided voters.
With the election just around the corner, all eyes will be on Wisconsin to see how this critical judicial race unfolds and what implications it may have for the state’s legal landscape.