A group of 11 former Republican officials has raised concerns regarding the legality of cash incentives offered by billionaire Elon Musk to voters ahead of the upcoming U.S. election on November 5. Musk’s political advocacy group, America PAC, aims to support Donald Trump in the presidential race and is encouraging registered voters in seven key swing states to sign a petition. Each day leading up to the election, one participant is randomly selected to receive a million-dollar prize.
Legal experts and several Democrats warn that this financial incentive could violate U.S. law, which prohibits offering money for voter registration. The U.S. Justice Department has confirmed that it is investigating the claims made by the former officials regarding Musk’s financial incentives to voters.
Musk has defended the initiative, stating that anyone, regardless of political affiliation, can participate in signing the petition without necessitating a vote.
The petition by America PAC specifically targets voters in six swing states—Georgia, Nevada, Arizona, Michigan, Wisconsin, and North Carolina—encouraging them to express support for free speech and the right to bear arms. Those who refer another voter to sign up are promised a sum of $47, while a sum of $100 is offered in Pennsylvania, a crucial battleground state.
Legal experts highlight that while the legality of Musk’s offer is under scrutiny, there are differing opinions. Some argue it may breach U.S. electoral law, while others suggest it operates in a legal gray area since participants are not directly incentivized for voting but rather for signing a petition.
Critics have strongly reacted, with high-profile political figures and attorneys calling for a detailed inquiry into Musk’s methods. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro expressed that the cash incentive scheme is “deeply concerning,” while billionaire investor Mark Cuban characterized the move as “innovative and desperate.” Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson noted that Musk’s actions are “potentially” unlawful and raise alarming concerns about election integrity.
In the realm of political precedents, Musk argues that similar initiatives have been funded by Democratic donors in the past, which calls for a broader discussion on the ethics and legality of financial incentives in election-related activities.
As Musk continues to involve himself in American politics, having switched his party allegiance and voiced support for various Republican candidates, his actions are shaping the electoral landscape in unprecedented ways. America PAC, launched in July, signals Musk’s commitment to supporting Trump’s campaign, echoing themes of secure borders, free speech, and a fair justice system.
With the election just around the corner, the implications of Musk’s approach to voter engagement are being closely monitored, leaving many to question the intersection of finance, politics, and electoral law in this pivotal moment in American history.
