Commentary: Departing words from Supreme Court Justice Ann Walsh Bradley

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Published April 12 2024 at 8:03 a.m. CDT

By Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Ann Walsh Bradey

Over the last 39 years I have been a judge. First as a circuit court judge in Marathon County, and the last 29 years as member of the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The people of Wisconsin have three times elected me to serve on the Supreme Court. It has been an honor of a lifetime to serve the people of this state and to know that when I am sitting down at the bench, I am standing up for them.

I believe strongly in the rule of law, the foundational principles of our democracy and a judicial system that advances access to justice for all. It is my life’s work. My professional life has embraced a steadfast commitment to those ideals and I will continue that commitment. However, it will take a different path in the future.

Today I announce that I will not be running for a fourth ten-year term on the Wisconsin Supreme Court. My service on the court will end on July 31, 2025. In the 177-year history of this state, only four justices will have served longer than my length of service. However, let me be clear: although I will then conclude my tenure on the court, my dedication to public service remains unwavering.

During my judicial career, I have worked hard to promote democracy both at home and abroad. I currently serve as Chair of the Board of Trustees of the International Association of Women Judges with over 6500 members in 143 countries and have travelled worldwide promoting our programs that further the values of democracy and an independent judiciary. At home, following the lead of former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, I have traveled the state promoting the civics education program that she founded to educate students about the role of courts in our system of government. When my third term concludes, I intend to redouble my efforts in these critical areas.

My decision has not come lightly. It is made after careful consideration and reflection. I know I can do the job and do it well. I know I can win re-election, should I run. But, it’s just time to pass the torch, bringing fresh perspectives to the court. Upon completion of my third term, I look forward to embarking upon a new chapter in my life, which will include public service that is guided by the same principles of justice, fairness and dedication that have defined my tenure on the court.

Click here to view the formal statement from the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

Editor’s note:
Bradley declined to be interviewed by the Wisconsin Law Journal.