In January of 2024, former Assemblywoman and Wisconsin Judicial Candidate Chris Taylor wrote a letter recommending Governor Evers to appoint longtime Democrat Lena Taylor to the circuit court.
The letter, written by a longtime political ally Chris Taylor, praises Lena Taylor for two decades of activism-driven legislative work. “I believe that she has the legal experience, two decades of invaluable legislative experience, and a lifetime commitment to effectuating social change and equity that make her a very unique and special candidate,” said Taylor in her letter.
A post shared by Dan O’Donnell ignited the controversy in Wisconsin’s political circles. “It goes without saying that advocacy is precisely what a judge is NOT supposed to do, but this letter is a fascinating glimpse into what Taylor believes a judge should be–an advocate for political causes Democrats hold dear. – It is also a pretty good indicator of the sort of Supreme Court Justice she would be –yet another liberal political hack,” said O’Donnell.
While it is not unusual for public officials to receive endorsements, the content of this particular letter have raised questions about judicial ethics, neutrality, and the proper role of advocacy for justices. The letter is framed less as a testament to Taylor’s legal qualifications and more as a celebration of her ideology and policy activism.
The central issue is not Taylor’s resume, but whether an individual whose public career has been defined by advocacy can uphold the judiciary’s obligation to impartiality. (RELATED: Democrat Gubernatorial Candidate Earns Major Union Endorsement)
When endorsements emphasize political crusades rather than judicial temperament, they undermine public confidence in the courts. Advocacy, essential in the legislature, is unethical in the judiciary.
Chris Taylor, is the former Assemblywoman for Wisconsin’s 76th district. The 76th district is currently represented by socialist Francesca Hong, who is the only socialist candidate in the 2026 Wisconsin gubernatorial race. (RELATED: GOP Warn of Water Contamination From Abortion Pills, Pushes ‘Catch Kit’ Mandate)
