The Sconi

Wisconsin Supreme Court Candidate Susan Crawford has announced she will not recuse herself from abortion-related cases if elected to the Wisconsin Supreme Court. 

This decision comes despite her previous representation of Planned Parenthood in similar cases and receiving an endorsement from Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin. 

In an interview with Milwaukee’s WISN-TV, Crawford said, "I'm proud of the work that I did as a lawyer in our courts fighting for people's rights, including Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin and their doctors, to protect their right to deliver health care services to women without having to be in fear of felony prosecution for doing it."

The controversy centers around Wisconsin's 1849 abortion law, which bans abortions after "quickening," except to protect the mother's life. The law is set for review by the court post-election. Critics question Crawford's ability to remain impartial given her past advocacy.

State Attorney General Josh Kaul has argued that the law is unenforceable due to its age, a stance echoed by liberal Justice Rebecca Dallet during oral arguments last November. Justice Jill Karofsky described applying such legislation today as a "world gone mad." Assistant Attorney General Hannah Jurss acknowledged that Kaul’s argument lacks precedent.

Dane County Circuit Judge Diane Schlipper recently ruled against the 1849 law, stating it does not apply because the word "abortion" is absent from its text. Pro-Life Wisconsin legislative director Matt Sande criticized this interpretation as "an extraordinary leap in logic."

Supreme Court Justice Janet Protasiewicz endorsed Crawford shortly after her candidacy announcement, indicating strong support among liberal justices. Brad Schimel, Crawford's opponent, emphasized his respect for voter decisions on abortion laws.

Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin endorsed Susan Crawford for the Wisconsin Supreme Court, saying in a press release that Crawford is “a leader committed to reproductive freedom.” 

“Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin is proud to stand alongside a leader committed to reproductive freedom,” said Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin President Tanya Atkinson in a press release. “Judge Susan Crawford’s values align with the people of Wisconsin, and she is the right choice to be our next State Supreme Court Justice.”

In its endorsement press release, Planned Parenthood said Crawford “has committed to protecting access” to abortion, including “serving as a prosecutor and advocating” for abortion. 

The group said Crawford was previously part of a group of attorneys that challenged Wisconsin statutes that restricted access to abortion.