Possible Election Law Breach by Elon Musk’s PAC in Key States

Elon Musk’s America PAC is in the spotlight over allegations of election law violations for incentivizing voter endorsements through a controversial petition initiative.

At a Glance

Republicans demand investigations into Musk’s America PAC for potential election law violations.
Allegations include payments to swing state voters for signing a First and Second Amendment petition.
Concerns arise over the legality under federal laws prohibiting payment for voter registration.
The DOJ has acknowledged complaints but hasn’t yet commenced a formal investigation.

Controversial Voter Incentives in Swing States

Elon Musk’s America PAC faces allegations of violating U.S. election laws. The PAC provides financial rewards to voters in swing states who sign a petition backing the First and Second Amendments, sparking controversy. Critics argue this may breach laws against paying for voter registration. Concerns from Republican legal figures have led to calls for federal investigations into these potential infractions.

The PAC’s initiative targets seven swing states, offering $100 to registered voters for signing the petition, with more incentives for referrals. Daily $1 million giveaways to petition signers continue until Election Day, triggering legal debates about its compliance with election integrity. The letter to the Attorney General highlights potential violations and stresses the urgency due to the approaching presidential election.

Elon Musk’s daily $1 million lottery for registered swing state voters who sign his Super PAC’s political petition falls into a legal gray area and could potentially violate election law, three experts say. https://t.co/icLy6xQuXW

— NBC News (@NBCNews) October 21, 2024

Legal Analysis and Concerns

Legal experts like Paul Schiff Berman and Richard Hasen have expressed concerns about the legality of Musk’s actions. Berman describes Musk’s offer as “likely illegal” under federal law, which outlaws payments for voter registration. Rick Hasen called the initiative “clearly illegal,” highlighting the serious legal questions it raises under federal statutes.

“I believe Musk’s offer is likely illegal. Under 52 U.S.C. 10307(c): ‘Whoever knowingly or willfully… pays or offers to pay or accepts payment either for registration to vote or for voting shall be fined not more than $10,000 or imprisoned not more than five years, or both.’ His offer is only open to registered voters, so I think his offer runs afoul of this provision.” – Paul Schiff Berman

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro also weighed in, finding the tactic “deeply concerning” and questioning the potential implications for democracy. Despite growing concerns, the DOJ has yet to initiate formal proceedings, though it has acknowledged receipt of the complaint. The initiative has brought national attention, igniting debate on legal and ethical grounds.

Political and Financial Stakes

Musk’s America PAC, with significant financial backing from Musk himself, has invested heavily in swing states crucial for the upcoming election. The initiative, described by Musk as “a fun and good use of money,” supports free speech and the right to bear arms and aims to mobilize voters for Trump’s campaign. The petition’s reach and PAC’s financial commitments continue to grow despite the legal complexities and ethical challenges posed.

“A fun and good use of money…” – Elon Musk

Main players are now evaluating impacts on election outcomes and staying within legal boundaries. Attention remains on federal agencies as they contemplate investigating these ground-breaking claims involving one of the nation’s richest and most influential figures. The evolving narrative underscores the interplay between wealth, power, and politics ahead of a critical election season.