Elon Musk’s $1 Million Giveaway Faces Legal Challenge
A Pennsylvania judge has ruled to allow Elon Musk’s $1 million-a-day election giveaway to continue, dismissing claims that the contest is an illegal lottery.
This decision comes before the U.S. presidential election, allowing Musk’s pro-Trump political group, America PAC, to proceed with its voter-focused campaign in key swing states.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe CEO of Tesla and prominent Trump supporter, is making headlines with his $1 million-a-day giveaway to registered voters in key swing states. This unique initiative, launched by Musk’s pro-Trump political group, America PAC, has ignited significant political and legal controversy, with Pennsylvania officials recently challenging the legality of the giveaway.
On Monday, a Pennsylvania judge ruled to allow Musk’s giveaway to continue despite arguments from Philadelphia’s District Attorney, Larry Krasner, who claimed the promotion is an illegal lottery with unclear rules. With only a day left before the close U.S. presidential election, the decision keeps Musk’s unique swing-state strategy alive.
Musk’s PAC Responds to Legal Claims
The giveaway’s legality came under scrutiny when Krasner’s office filed a lawsuit on October 28, asking the court to block the contest in Pennsylvania. Krasner, a Democrat, argued that the daily $1 million payments could influence voters and that the contest’s loosely defined terms amount to a lottery.
America PAC’s director, Chris Young, along with Musk’s attorney, Andy Taylor, defended the campaign in court, claiming that the funds are being awarded based on criteria aligning with the PAC’s pro-Trump platform, not by random selection. Despite this stance, Musk has publicly stated that winners are chosen “randomly.”
Young explained, “This initiative isn’t about creating a lottery; it’s about aligning voters with our platform. The winners represent our values in supporting Trump’s vision.” Taylor added that the DA’s office was limiting citizens’ rights by trying to stop Pennsylvanians from signing America PAC’s political petition, which promotes gun rights and free speech.
Judge Allows Giveaway to Continue
Judge Angelo Foglietta ruled against Krasner’s request to halt the contest, issuing a short order stating that he would
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explain his decision later. As a result, Musk’s giveaway will continue, targeting battleground states like Pennsylvania, Arizona, and Michigan with substantial daily cash awards for registered voters who sign America PAC’s petition.
So far, the initiative has awarded $16 million to participating voters, and America PAC confirmed it has a winner in Arizona. The final winner is set to be announced on Election Day, raising speculation about the giveaway’s influence on voters in critical states.
America PAC’s Controversial Strategy
Since early October, America PAC has targeted registered voters in seven swing states — Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. The voters are encouraged to sign a petition supporting free speech and gun rights, which Musk has framed as core issues of his campaign. Those who sign are eligible for the daily cash prizes, a strategic move that Musk’s supporters argue is entirely legal and transparent.
Critics, however, question the ethics of the approach. District Attorney Krasner accused Musk and America PAC of using the giveaways to sway voter opinion and influence the election’s outcome, stating that Musk’s tactics may have more to do with buying votes than supporting political advocacy.
Elon Musk’s Political Influence Continues to Grow
Since publicly backing former President Donald Trump, Elon Musk has become a significant figure in conservative circles. Through his X social media platform and financial contributions, he has vocally supported Trump’s policies and agenda. According to federal filings, Musk has invested nearly $120 million in America PAC, bolstering its voter outreach and registration efforts.
His influence reaches beyond the giveaway. As a highly visible CEO and a pro-Trump advocate, Musk’s actions are closely watched, especially as the election draws near. “They’re trying to stop people from participating in democracy,” Musk’s attorney Taylor argued in court. “It’s about free speech and Pennsylvanians’ rights.”
For now, the court ruling is a win for Musk and his team. As Election Day approaches, the outcome of the giveaway and its potential impact on voters in swing states remain uncertain.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.