
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has raised concerns about the legality of a $1 million sweepstakes organized by Elon Musk’s America PAC, targeting registered voters in swing states.
At a Glance
- DOJ warns Elon Musk’s PAC about potential legal issues with $1 million daily voter giveaway
- Sweepstakes aims to gather support for First and Second Amendments in key swing states
- America PAC claims the initiative is legal, but experts debate potential violations of federal election laws
- DOJ’s warning letter suggests possible criminal investigation if activities continue
DOJ Questions Legality of Musk’s Voter Incentive
The U.S. Department of Justice has issued a warning to Elon Musk’s political action committee regarding the legality of its $1 million per day giveaway to registered voters. The sweepstakes, organized by America PAC, offers cash prizes to American voters who sign a petition supporting free speech and gun rights, with contest rules requiring winners to be registered voters in crucial swing states.
The DOJ’s Public Integrity Section sent the letter following Democratic outrage, suggesting that the giveaway may violate federal election laws. U.S. law prohibits paying people to register to vote, but it remains unclear if the sweepstakes breaks any specific statutes.
The Justice Department has sent a letter to tech billionaire Elon Musk's America PAC warning that his $1 million sweepstakes giveaway to registered voters in swing states may violate federal law, a source familiar with the matter confirmed to @ABC News. https://t.co/DDUN8a2MPr
— ABC News (@ABC) October 23, 2024
America PAC’s Defense and Contest Details
America PAC maintains that the cash awards are legal and believes the media attention aids their cause. The contest aims to gather support for the First and Second Amendments, targeting voters in seven swing states. Million-dollar rewards have already been given to voters in Pennsylvania and North Carolina, with daily drawings continuing through Election Day.
“We want to try to get over a million, maybe 2 million voters in the battleground states to sign the petition in support of the First and Second Amendment” – Mr Musk
Musk claims the contest is legal, stating no party affiliation is required and participation doesn’t mandate voting. The contest rules were reframed to describe the money as payment for a job, with winners acting as spokespersons for America PAC.
Legal Concerns and Potential Violations
Legal experts suggest the contest may be illegal, citing U.S. electoral law prohibiting payment for voter registration. The DOJ’s concern is that these payments could breach laws against compensating people to register or vote in federal elections. However, some experts believe Musk may have found a legal loophole, making the case difficult to prosecute.
“The PAC is confident in the legality of this initiative and the predictable media meltdown is only helping America PAC’s efforts to support President Trump” – a representative
The Justice Department’s warning letter aims to prompt recipients to adjust their actions to comply with the law. Similar warnings have been sent to other organizations linking promotions to voting, suggesting possible criminal investigations if activities continue.
Historical Context and Implications
This isn’t the first time such concerns have been raised. In 2010, a similar warning was issued to Vince McMahon for offering free merchandise to voters, highlighting the legal issue of offering value for voting. The current situation brings into focus the complex dynamics of financial influence in political campaigns and the role of affluent individuals in shaping voter behavior.
As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen how the DOJ will proceed and whether America PAC will make any adjustments to its sweepstakes. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for future political campaigns and the interpretation of election laws in the digital age.
Sources:
- Justice Department Cautions Musk PAC on $1 Million Voter Lottery
- US warns Musk political group that $1m voter giveaway may be illegal
- DOJ Sends Musk’s PAC Warning Over $1 Million Voter Lottery