Elon Musk, the world’s richest man, has been involved in a controversial scheme to give away $1 million daily to a registered voter in swing states leading up to the election. However, Musk’s lawyer, Chris Gober, argues that this is not a lottery because the winners are carefully chosen based on their suitability to represent Musk’s pro-Trump super PAC, America PAC.
The Pennsylvania District Attorney’s Office has taken legal action against Musk and America PAC, accusing them of election fraud and running an illegal lottery. They claim that citizens are being encouraged to provide personal information and make political pledges in exchange for the chance to win $1 million, which constitutes an unlawful lottery.
Despite the accusations, Judge Angelo Foglietta has refused to block the scheme. Gober revealed that the $1 million recipients are not selected by chance, but are chosen based on specific criteria and are required to serve as a spokesperson for the PAC. The final prizes will be awarded to registered voters in Arizona and Michigan, not in Pennsylvania where the sweepstake originated.
Musk had invited registered voters in key swing states to sign a petition supporting free speech and gun rights, with one winner chosen daily from the signatories. So far, America PAC has awarded 16 $1 million checks to registered voters, with four going to Pennsylvania residents.
After receiving a warning from the Justice Department about potential legal violations, Musk and America PAC faced a temporary pause in announcing winners before being sued by the Pennsylvania DA’s Office. Musk’s attempt to move the lawsuit to federal court was denied, indicating that the legal battle will continue at the state level.
Despite the controversy surrounding the voter lottery selection, Musk remains committed to his initiative to support political causes through monetary incentives. The unfolding legal proceedings will determine the future of this scheme and its implications for voter engagement and electoral integrity.
