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The Department of Justice (DOJ) has warned Elon Musk that he may be violating federal law by offering daily withdrawals of $1 million to voters in swing states.
Let’s bring you up to speed: Elon Musk’s pro-Trump super PAC, America PAC, has been running a daily $1 million sweepstakes aimed at registered voters in key swing states. To enter, individuals must sign a petition supporting the First and Second Amendments, with winners selected daily leading up to the 2024 election. The PAC has already awarded the first few prizes to voters in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. Musk’s initiative is designed to rally support for former President Donald Trump by targeting voters in pivotal states, using the financial incentive to encourage engagement with the PAC’s campaign messages.”
What the DOJ is doing: After receiving multiple complaints from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, as well as local officials, the DOJ issued a formal warning to Elon Musk’s pro-Trump super PAC, America PAC, regarding its daily $1 million giveaways to registered voters in swing states. The DOJ cautioned that the sweepstakes could potentially violate federal election law. Specifically, the DOJ’s Public Integrity Section raised concerns that the lottery might violate a federal statute prohibiting financial incentives in exchange for voter registration.
What officials are saying: Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has questioned the legality of Elon Musk’s giveaways. In an interview with Meet the Press, he said, “I think there are real questions with how he is spending money in this race. How the dark money is flowing, not just into Pennsylvania but apparently now into the pockets of Pennsylvanians.” He added that Musk’s moves were “deeply concerning,” which “raises serious questions that folks may want to take a look at.”
Where things stand now: Elon Musk’s America PAC briefly paused its daily $1 million sweepstakes following a warning from the Department of Justice (DOJ) about potential violations of federal law.
