MacIver Files Brief Urging Wisconsin Supreme Court to Investigate Allegations of Judicial Impropriety Against Troupis

MADISON — The John K. MacIver Institute for Public Policy today announced that it filed an amicus curiae brief with the Wisconsin Supreme Court in support of Judge Jim Troupis‘s petition for review in a high-profile criminal case related to the 2020 presidential election. MacIver called on the Court to grant the petition and order an evidentiary hearing to address credible allegations of misconduct in the Dane County Circuit Court.

The Troupis case involves charges against him for his role advising an alternate slate of electors. However, Troupis has raised serious concerns about the impartiality of a key circuit court decision, alleging it was influenced by a retired judge with a prior connection to related civil litigation. Evidence suggests the retired judge, whose son serves as the current court clerk, may have contributed to drafting the decision, creating at least the appearance of bias. The circuit court dismissed these claims without a hearing, prompting Troupis to seek Supreme Court intervention.

In the brief, the MacIver Institute argued that failing to investigate these allegations risks the continued erosion of trust in the judiciary, especially in politically sensitive cases. Drawing on longstanding legal principles, including the famous dictum that “justice should not only be done, but should manifestly and undoubtedly be seen to be done,” MacIver warns that unchecked suspicions could tarnish Wisconsin’s courts on a national stage.

“Public trust in our justice system is paramount, and Wisconsinites deserve assurance that courts are free from even the perception of impropriety,” said Annette Olson, MacIver Institute CEO. “This is not about partisan politics, it’s about upholding the rule of law and ensuring fair proceedings for all. By granting this petition and requiring a transparent hearing, the Supreme Court has a unique opportunity to strengthen the reputation of our state’s judiciary and demonstrate its commitment to impartial justice.”

The MacIver Institute, a nonpartisan think tank dedicated to promoting free markets, individual freedom, and limited government, filed the brief on March 6, 2026, through attorney Nicholas J. Boerke of NJB Law & Consulting LLC.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.