Liberal Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Ann Walsh Bradley announced her retirement after 29 years on the bench.
Her current term ends in 2025 and she stated she would not run for a fourth 10-year term at age 70.
Bradley noted only four justices in the court’s 177-year history have served longer.
Her departure could impact the current 4-3 liberal majority as elections are held in April 2025 for her seat.
Former Attorney General Brad Schimel, a Republican, has already announced his candidacy.
“Today I announce that I will not be running for a fourth ten-year term on the Wisconsin Supreme Court,” Bradley wrote. “In the 177-year history of this state, only four justices will have served longer than my length of service.”
Bradley said while she could continue performing her duties well, it was time to pass the torch to bring fresh perspectives to the court.
Her retirement announcement comes over a year after a Democrat was elected, maintaining the liberal edge on the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
“My decision does not come lightly,” Bradley added. “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.”
