Podcast Summary: What A Day – "Musk Throws Millions Into Wisc. Supreme Court Race"

Release Date: March 31, 2025
Host: Jane Coaston
Produced by Crooked Media

Introduction

In this episode of What A Day, host Jane Coaston delves into a pivotal Wisconsin Supreme Court race that has captured national attention due to unprecedented financial involvement from billionaire Elon Musk. Alongside this, Coaston and her guest, Ben Wickler, Chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party, discuss broader national and international issues, including President Donald Trump's recent statements, Iran's nuclear negotiations, and significant events like the devastating earthquake in Myanmar.

Wisconsin Supreme Court Race

Elon Musk's Involvement and Funding

The Wisconsin Supreme Court race has become the most expensive judicial contest in U.S. history, with Elon Musk and his allies pouring over $20 million into the campaign (01:33). According to tracking by the Brennan Center for Justice, total spending has reached approximately $80 million, with Musk contributing a quarter of that amount. Musk's substantial financial backing raises questions about his motives, potentially linked to Tesla's legal battles with the state over dealership laws (01:35).

Candidates: Susan Crawford vs. Brad Schimmel

• Susan Crawford: A seasoned prosecutor and former head of enforcement at the Department of Natural Resources, Crawford has a distinguished record defending voting rights and challenging anti-union laws. Wickler describes her as a judge who "treats every defendant equally" and stands as a "line of defense for the idea that no one is above the law" (05:01).

• Brad Schimmel: Endorsed by President Trump, Schimmel is a former Republican Attorney General under Scott Walker. He is portrayed as a far-right figure who has actively undermined unions and voting rights, and supports stringent abortion laws (03:41). Wickler criticizes Schimmel for perpetuating corruption and attempting to "systematically remove the power and the basis of democracy" in Wisconsin (03:50).

Voter Turnout and Impact

Early voting has seen a record-breaking turnout, with over 500,000 ballots cast. Wickler notes a heightened sense of urgency among voters, driven by national frustrations such as the closure of Social Security offices and cuts to the university system (06:23). The race has galvanized both Republican and Democratic bases, with Crawford witnessing unprecedented grassroots support (06:23).

Fundraising and Campaign Strategies

Elon Musk's aggressive financial tactics include direct donations, petitions incentivizing sign-ups with cash rewards, and organized door-knocking campaigns backed by substantial funding. In contrast, Crawford's campaign relies heavily on grassroots fundraising, having amassed $24 million despite being outspent by Musk's $20 million contributions (07:32). Wickler emphasizes the power of volunteer-driven efforts over Musk's paid campaigns, asserting confidence in Crawford's ability to win through community engagement (07:35).

Legal Issues Related to Musk's Funding

Musk's financial maneuvers, including issuing large novelty checks and incentivizing petition sign-ups, have raised legal concerns. The Wisconsin Attorney General is seeking Supreme Court intervention over potential election bribery (09:45). Wickler warns of Musk's attempts to "buy this election," highlighting the risk of such tactics setting a concerning precedent nationwide (09:45).

Volunteer and Voter Action

Wickler urges listeners, especially those outside Wisconsin, to support the campaign by joining virtual phone banks or volunteering locally. He emphasizes the importance of collective effort to counteract Musk's financial influence and secure a fair judiciary (10:53).

U.S. Domestic and Foreign Politics

President Trump's Unprompted Interview

In an unexpected move, President Donald Trump contacted NBC's Kristen Welker to express his frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin and threatened secondary tariffs on Russian oil if no nuclear deal is reached (13:19). He also hinted at the possibility of seeking a third term, dismissing constitutional limits ("those methods do not include the U.S. constitution") (14:06).

Notable Quotes:

• Trump [13:27]: "Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine... I am going to put secondary tariffs on all oil coming out of Russia."
• Trump [14:06]: "There are methods which you could do it... those methods do not include the U.S. constitution."

Iran Nuclear Negotiations

Iran has rejected direct talks with the U.S. regarding its nuclear program, responding to a letter from Trump aimed at striking a new nuclear deal (14:21). The Iranian government remains open to indirect negotiations through mediators, continuing a dialogue that has persisted since Trump's withdrawal from the original deal (16:11).

Tariffs and Automotive Industry

Trump announced a 25% tariff on all imported vehicles and auto parts, citing the need to protect American manufacturing despite potential price hikes for consumers (14:30). Wickler critiques this stance, noting that many American carmakers do not produce their vehicles domestically, likely leading to increased prices rather than the intended economic boost (14:39).

Relations with Denmark Over Greenland

The Danish Foreign Minister criticized the U.S. for inadequate investment in Greenland's security, following Vice President J.D. Vance's visit and Trump's bold claims about Greenland's strategic importance (16:58). Trump reiterated the necessity of Greenland for international security, suggesting that military options remain on the table despite resistance (17:27).

International Events

Earthquake in Myanmar

A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar, resulting in approximately 1,700 deaths, 3,000 injuries, and 300 missing persons (17:42). The disaster compounded the challenges posed by the ongoing civil war, with rescue efforts hindered by conflict. In response, Myanmar's resistance movement announced a two-week ceasefire, and the military junta allowed hundreds of foreign aid workers to assist (17:42).

Health and Science

RFK Jr.'s Confirmation Hearings and Vaccine Skepticism

During his confirmation hearings, Health and Human Services Secretary nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr. presented conflicting statements about his stance on vaccines. Despite claiming to support vaccination, his book alleges a link between thimerosal in vaccines and autism—a claim widely debunked by scientific authorities (16:58).

Resignation of Dr. Peter Marks

Dr. Peter Marks, the FDA's top vaccine official, resigned amid tensions over vaccine safety and transparency. In his resignation letter, Marks criticized RFK Jr.'s administration for preferring "subservient confirmation of his misinformation and lies" over truth and transparency (16:58).

Hiring of David Geier

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has appointed David Geier, a controversial figure with a history of unlicensed medical practice and discredited research, to lead a study on the purported links between vaccines and autism (16:58). Geier's past includes practicing medicine without a license and promoting unfounded theories about vaccine safety (16:58).

Notable Quotes:

• Dr. Peter Marks [16:58]: "Truth and transparency are not desired by the Secretary, but rather he wishes subservient confirmation of his misinformation and lies."

Conclusion

The episode underscores the critical nature of the Wisconsin Supreme Court race amidst unprecedented financial interference and broader national and international tensions. Jane Coaston and Ben Wickler emphasize the importance of voter engagement and the long-term implications of today's political battles on the future of democracy and governance.

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