Elon Musk: A Pennsylvania court has decided that Elon Musk’s well-publicized $1 million voter donation for a swing state may go forward. Between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, the choice falls one day before the US presidential contest. Judge Angelo Foglietta’s ruling lets Musk’s political party America PAC go on with its money payouts meant to honor those who sign a petition supporting free speech and gun rights.
The ruling included unexpected admissions from Musk’s legal team and intense court conflicts. Arguing that the event was a “illegal lottery” meant to affect votes in important battleground states, Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner had sued to stop it. Krasner also said the conditions were deceptive because Musk had before said the winners would be selected at random. Later on, his team said, the choice was determined by the candidates’ fit as speakers for the PAC’s Trump-friendly platform.
Chris Gober, Musk’s attorney, said in court that the grantees were selected based on their capacity to successfully reflect the PAC’s values rather than at random. Gober said, “There is no prize to be won,” stressing that every recipient had consented to represent the PAC publicly—often chosen depending on their personal background. This statement drew questions as it made it abundantly evident that Musk’s draw was more about projecting a certain image for his political activities than it was about chance.
Although short and devoid of any explanation, the judge’s ruling lets America PAC keep using its money until Tuesday, Election Day. Launched October 19, the game has already given voters in seven battleground states $16 million; the last winner from Michigan is anticipated to be revealed on Election Day.
Regarding the influence of Musk’s endeavor, legal experts differ. Although some see the effort as innovative voter mobilization, others—including UCLA law professor Richard Hasen—criticize it as “clearly illegal,” Hasen says the contest could constitute “vote buying,” a tactic forbidden under federal election law. Though no official action has been taken, the U.S. Department of Justice has previously cautioned America PAC of the possible legal hazards.
According to Krasner’s office, the election gift helped Trump win; this is an allegation Musk has not categorically disputed. Musk defended the debate on a recent episode of Joe Rogan’s podcast, asserting he supports constitutional rights. “We organized this petition in support of the Constitution,” Musk said, adding that he aimed to convey to legislators the public’s dedication to the Second Amendment and free expression.
With Pennsylvania’s 19 electoral votes playing a pivotal role in this very close contest, it is still to be known how Musk’s divisive campaign will finally turn out.
