This blog originally appeared at AP News.
In the midst of a highly charged political landscape, Wisconsin finds itself at the center of a contentious debate that has sent shockwaves through its political circles. The topic of discussion? The potential impeachment of a newly appointed state Supreme Court justice. As the echoes of partisan discord reverberate, this blog delves deep into the intricacies of why Wisconsin’s Republicans are considering such a dramatic move and the implications it holds for the state’s judicial system, its citizens, and the broader national discourse. Join us as we unravel the unfolding controversy and explore the factors fueling this unprecedented debate.
Wisconsin Supreme Court candidate Democratic-supported Janet Protasiewicz participates in a debate, March 21, 2023, in Madison, Wis. Even before the newly elected justice who gave liberals a one-seat majority on the Wisconsin Supreme Court has heard a case, Republican lawmakers are talking about taking the unprecedented step of impeaching and removing her from office. And they have the votes to do it.
The Republican-controlled Legislature in Wisconsin is considering the impeachment of Justice Janet Protasiewicz, a newly elected liberal state Supreme Court justice, even before she has had the opportunity to hear a case. This move is highly unusual and has raised concerns about the politicization of the state’s judiciary.
The impeachment effort is taking place at a time when the state Supreme Court is being asked to review legislative electoral maps that were drawn by the Republican-controlled Legislature in 2011. These maps were instrumental in solidifying the Republican Party’s majorities in the state, with a 65-34 majority in the Assembly and a 22-11 supermajority in the Senate.
The situation raises questions about the separation of powers and the potential for political interference in the judicial branch. It underscores the broader national debate over the fairness and neutrality of the judiciary, particularly in cases related to redistricting and electoral politics.
The attempt to impeach a sitting justice is a rare and contentious move that has sparked debates about the role of the judiciary and the boundaries of political power in Wisconsin. It remains to be seen how this situation will unfold and what implications it may have for the state’s judicial system and political landscape.
Protasiewicz won election in April to a 10-year term on the Wisconsin Supreme Court beginning Aug. 1. Her 11-point victory gave liberals a 4-3 majority, ending a 15-year run with conservatives in control.
During her first week in office, two lawsuits were filed by Democratic-friendly groups and law firms seeking to overturn Republican-drawn legislative maps.
WHY IS THERE TALK OF IMPEACHMENT?
Republican lawmakers, including Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, have raised concerns about Justice Janet Protasiewicz’s impartiality in redistricting cases pending before the Supreme Court. They allege that comments she made during her campaign suggest she has prejudged the cases. Additionally, they argue that her acceptance of nearly $10 million in campaign funds from the Wisconsin Democratic Party disqualifies her from participating in these cases.
It’s worth noting that the state Democratic Party is not a party to either of the redistricting lawsuits, but they support the legal challenges.
As of now, the court has not made a decision on whether it will hear the redistricting challenges, and Justice Protasiewicz has not indicated whether she will recuse herself from these cases, including the decision on whether to hear them.
If Justice Protasiewicz were to recuse herself, the court would be evenly divided with three liberal and three conservative justices. However, it’s important to note that conservative Justice Brian Hagedorn has previously aligned with liberal justices on significant cases, which has caused frustration among Republicans.
This situation highlights the complex and contentious nature of judicial appointments and the potential for political considerations to impact the independence and neutrality of the judiciary. It also underscores the ongoing debate over the role of money in judicial campaigns and the challenges of maintaining public confidence in the judicial system.
Click here to see full blog: https://apnews.com/article/wisconsin-supreme-court-justice-impeachment-9b28383d30371c8c109b644f9b9a8d72
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