Susan Crawford, the liberal candidate for Wisconsin Supreme Court, was a lead attorney in the 2011 legal battle to overturn Wisconsin’s voter ID law. Her role in challenging the law has become an issue in the race, with voters set to decide not only this pivotal judicial seat but also potentially the future of voter ID requirements through a constitutional amendment referendum.
Wisconsin’s voter ID law, introduced as Act 23 in 2011, required voters to present valid photo identification at the polls or when requesting absentee ballots. The legislation also implemented changes to voter registration, residency requirements, and absentee voting procedures. While proponents argued the law was essential to protect election integrity, opponents, including Crawford, contended it created unnecessary barriers for certain voters.
Crawford’s challenge to Act 23 reached the Wisconsin Supreme Court, where the justices ultimately upheld the law. Although passed in 2011, the voter ID requirement did not take effect until 2016 due to ongoing litigation. During that time, Crawford advocated for alternatives, such as allowing voters to sign affidavits attesting to their identity and later called the law “draconian.”
Her opponent, Brad Schimel, has built supported voter ID laws and election integrity. As Wisconsin’s Attorney General from 2015 to 2019, Schimel oversaw the enforcement of the voter ID requirement once it went into effect. Schimel argues that voter ID laws are a common-sense measure to secure elections and ensure public confidence in the voting process.
This judicial race takes on added significance as Republicans in the Wisconsin legislature are expected to vote on a constitutional amendment to permanently enshrine voter ID requirements. If passed in both chambers for a second consecutive session, the amendment would go to voters in an April referendum- the same time Crawford and Schimel will be on the ballot to decide the next State Supreme Court Justice.
The race between Crawford and Schimel reflects starkly opposing views on voter ID laws that voters will have to decide on. Crawford’s record as a vocal critic and lead attorney challenging the law contrasts sharply with Schimel’s history of defending and enforcing it.
We need to see voter ID”S–every where, but especially in large areas where they not know the voters and should demand ID”S. All –whether known or not-must show an ID!!!!!! Crawford is TOO permissive! We need honesty!