Pennsylvania Judge Approves Elon Musk’s $1 Million-a-Day Voter Contest

PHILADELPHIA — A Pennsylvania judge ruled on Monday that Elon Musk’s political action committee can continue its $1 million-a-day voter sweepstakes through the upcoming presidential election. Common Pleas Court Judge Angelo Foglietta’s decision came despite challenges from Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner, who labeled the initiative a scam that violates state election law.

Musk’s legal team asserts that the sweepstakes winners are not chosen randomly; rather, they are pre-selected individuals who serve as spokespersons for the committee. They stated that the recipients would already know they were chosen but would not be aware of the exact monetary amount until announced.

Krasner has called for the sweepstakes to be halted, arguing that it undermines the electoral process. His concerns were heightened during the court proceedings on Monday when it was revealed that the PAC made participants sign nondisclosure agreements, raising questions about transparency.

Chris Young, the director of America PAC, testified that winners are vetted beforehand to ensure alignment with the group’s values. In response to inquiries about Musk’s use of the terms “randomly” and “chance,” Young acknowledged that the language employed in promotional materials might not have accurately reflected the selection process.

The PAC has committed significant resources to this initiative, which has garnered interest from over a million participants across various swing states. Musk has reportedly invested more than $70 million into the super PAC to influence outcomes in the upcoming elections.

Krasner has indicated potential civil actions against the organizers, suggesting that the sweepstakes could infringe upon Pennsylvania’s lottery regulations. As the election approaches, both Musk and the PAC are expected to finalize the sweepstakes by Tuesday, concluding the promotional effort that some allege is masking political influence as a lottery.

With Pennsylvania’s critical electoral stakes in focus, the outcome of this legal battle may have broader implications, especially as key candidates like Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris continue their campaign efforts in the state.