MADISON, Wisconsin – Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin, Wisconsin’s largest commercial construction trade association, voted this week to endorse Brad Schimel for Wisconsin’s Supreme Court Race.
“Our members need a judge who is tough on crime, specifically contractor theft. Brad Schimel has a strong record of enforcing laws, and recognizing the serious impact theft has on Wisconsin’s businesses,” explained Jeff Disher, a former Board Chair and an active member of ABC’s legislative committee.
An estimated one billion dollars’ worth of construction equipment is stolen from construction sites every year, with the average cost of a single equipment theft at $30,000.[1] That number does not include the value of stolen raw materials or loss of productivity from shutdowns and delays.
“Everyone has seen the videos of retail stores being cleaned out by shoplifters who have no fear of facing consequences for their crime. Theft from construction companies may not be as well known, but it is just as harmful to those family-owned small businesses that are literally building Wisconsin,” said ABC of Wisconsin President Kelly Tourdot. “Construction companies are already dealing with supply chain issues, inflation, and finding workers. The last thing they need is a judge who doesn’t enforce the criminal laws on the books.”
The April 1 race will determine whether liberals or conservatives control the state’s top court.
“The stakes are high, and the outcome of this election will have a ripple effect for many years. We strongly encourage all our members to get out and vote in this election,” said Kyle Kraemer, Chair of ABC of Wisconsin’s Board of Directors.
