Musk Faces Legal Battle Over $1 Million-a-Day Giveaway Amid Presidential Election
Musk Engages in High-Stakes Legal Battle in Pennsylvania Court
Elon Musk is standing firm against legal challenges surrounding his $1 million-a-day giveaway to registered voters, a contentious contest unfolding just days before the U.S. presidential election. On Monday, Musk’s attorney emphasized that his client would not be “bullied” by efforts to halt the initiative, currently under judicial review in Pennsylvania.
The timing is crucial, with the hearing occurring only one day before the anticipated election face-off between Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican former President Donald Trump. Musk, the CEO of Tesla and an advocate for free speech, has openly shown support for Trump through his political action committee (PAC), America PAC. Since October 19, Musk has been awarding daily $1 million checks to randomly selected voters who have backed his petition supporting free speech and gun rights.
Legal Battle Erupts in Pennsylvania Swing State
The legality of Musk’s daily giveaways has sparked intense debate, especially in Pennsylvania, a pivotal battleground state. Philadelphia District Attorney Lawrence Krasner, a prominent progressive, filed a lawsuit against Musk and America PAC on October 28, alleging that the giveaway constitutes an illegal lottery in violation of state consumer protection laws. Krasner’s lawsuit aims to stop the program, asserting it disrupts fair election practices.
Musk’s attorney, Chris Gober, rejected Krasner’s claims, calling them “partisan agendas masquerading as legal arguments.” Gober underscored Musk’s resolve to defend his rights, criticizing the lawsuit as an overreach undermining fundamental freedoms.
Campaigning for Influence Across Key Swing States
Musk’s offer targets registered voters in seven key states likely to sway the election outcome: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. His support for Trump has been particularly prominent this year, with Musk using his X social media platform to promote Trump’s campaign and engage with his base.
So far, America PAC has awarded $1 million checks to 16 individuals, with the final prize scheduled for November 5. However, Krasner has raised concerns about the selection process’s transparency, noting that two recipients were attendees at pro-Trump rallies, which questions the randomness of the selection.
Federal Law Concerns and PAC’s Role
The giveaway operates in a legally ambiguous space, with the U.S. Department of Justice issuing cautions to America PAC over potential violations of federal laws prohibiting payments for voter registration. However, federal prosecutors have not taken formal action against Musk or America PAC, leaving the issue unresolved.
Federal disclosures indicate that Musk has contributed nearly $120 million to America PAC, underscoring his prominent role in Trump’s campaign. With Trump’s campaign relying heavily on external support, Musk’s financial backing is expected to play a significant role in this razor-thin election.
State Court’s Decision Could Shape Campaign’s Closing Days
Musk’s legal team initially sought to transfer the case to federal court, contending that the suit raises questions about free speech and election interference. However, U.S. District Judge Gerald Pappert ruled on Friday that the case should remain in state court. Judge Angelo Foglietta has since scheduled a hearing to assess the giveaway’s legality under state law, a decision that may impact the election’s final days and the broader campaign finance landscape.
As legal experts weigh in, Musk’s America PAC remains in the spotlight, with critics questioning the ethics and legality of his financial contributions leading up to one of the nation’s most closely watched elections. The court’s decision may set a precedent for campaign finance regulations, potentially reshaping the role of personal wealth in American politics.