Dear Friend,

Early next year, for the fourth time, I will ask Wisconsin's voters to let me keep working for them on the State Supreme Court. The last two Supreme Court elections have taught us about the changes in Judicial Campaigns. I've never run for the court unopposed, and I expect opposition next spring. Part of the strength of the Wisconsin judiciary comes from its foundation in the Democratic process. Whatever has changed since my first election in 1979, my own commitment to the fierce independence and integrity of the State Judicial System has not changed. To keep that commitment, you can expect this from me:

A campaign that speaks directly, forcefully and positively with a broad base of support from Business and Labor, from Law Enforcement, from Farm and City, from Republican, Democrat, and Independent. That theme characterized my last three campaigns and, for a sampling this time, just go to "Supporters." It's not only the right way to campaign for Judicial Office, it's the way to win.

A campaign to maintain the excellence of the Supreme Court and the entire State Judiciary.

A campaign to increase the involvement of voters in the next Judicial election. The two Justices last elected to the Court received less than 20 percent of the votes of eligible voters. We can do much better and, indeed, we must to keep faith with the framers who wrote the State's Constitution 160 years ago and put the selection of Judges in the people's hands.

I've been to every county in this state - most more times than I can count. For the next 10 months and more, you'll hear from me a little more often, and I'd like your thoughts and suggestions.

I am writing you now because of the friendship or public service we share, to let you know my plans and goals. I would appreciate your support.

Sincerely Yours,

Shirley S. Abrahamson