Wisconsin Supreme Court candidate Chris Taylor is three days into a statewide campaign blitz — just days after her campaign said kidney stones prevented her from debating her opponent.
Taylor’s campaign announced March 25 that the judge sought medical care after waking up ill and was diagnosed with kidney stones, forcing the postponement of the sole scheduled debate, originally planned that evening at Marquette University Law School in Milwaukee. The debate was rescheduled for Thursday at WISN-TV’s studio.
Her campaign said she would rest and recover for a couple of days before returning to the campaign trail. (RELATED: Francesca Hong’s Pro-Prostitution Bill Sparks Firestorm as She Eyes Wisconsin Governor’s Race)
She apparently recovered quickly.
Back on the Road
Taylor’s “Protecting Our Rights and Freedoms Final Tour” launched Saturday and runs through April 6, with stops in Madison, Milwaukee, Green Bay, Racine, and other communities. On Sunday, she attended Palm Sunday services in Milwaukee, met voters in Racine, and appeared at events in the Walworth County area, including Elkhorn.
Her campaign says she passed the kidney stones just before beginning the tour. (RELATED: Shadowy UW Lobbying Group Fights Bill That Would Give Its Own Members a Voice — And Won’t Say Why)
The timing has raised eyebrows. Doctors often caution against extensive car travel for kidney stone patients — prolonged sitting and the jostling of car travel can cause extreme pain and discomfort. Patients are generally advised to rest, stay hydrated, and remain close to medical care until symptoms fully subside.
The Race
Taylor faces Appeals Court Judge Maria Lazar in the April 7 election for an open seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The contest has drawn significant attention as a battle between differing judicial philosophies in a key battleground state.
Lazar, who did appear ready to debate, has campaigned on a straightforward judicial philosophy: applying the law as written. The missed debate was the only one scheduled between the two candidates — leaving Wisconsin voters with one fewer opportunity to see them side by side before Election Day.
The rescheduled debate is set for Thursday at WISN-TV’s studio.
