Wisconsin’s attorney general is stepping in to stop Elon Musk from handing out $2 million to two voters just before the state’s Supreme Court election. Attorney General Josh Kaul filed a lawsuit, calling Musk’s action a “clear attempt to buy votes.” He argues that Musk, along with his political action committee, is breaking Wisconsin election laws.
The election on April 1 has gained national attention. It’s crucial because it will decide if the state’s highest court swings liberal or conservative. Musk announced on March 27 that he would be giving a talk in Wisconsin and would hand out two checks for $1 million each to voters willing to participate.
Musk, who has ties to former President Donald Trump, later clarified that he would be giving checks to two people who would act as spokespeople for a petition promoted by his political committee, America PAC. This petition asks voters to reject “activist judges.” The committee incentivizes engagement, offering $100 to anyone who signs the petition and another $100 for referring others.
The first person to receive a check, Scott Ainsworth from Green Bay, appeared in a video with his large, novelty check, urging others to join in. The America PAC did not respond to requests for comment about the ongoing situation.
Kaul, a Democrat, stressed the importance of safe and fair elections in Wisconsin. With a liberal justice retiring, the upcoming seat is vital. The outcome could shape Wisconsin’s laws for years, impacting issues from reproductive rights to education.
This election has become a litmus test for the Republican Party under Trump. It has attracted major fundraising, pulling in national political figures and a record-setting total of $81 million, according to the Brennan Center for Justice, a progressive legal think tank.
The candidates are Dane County Circuit Judge Susan Crawford, supported by Democrats, and Waukesha County Judge Brad Schimel, who is the Republican choice. Both Trump and Musk have publicly endorsed Schimel on social media.
Musk will host his talk in Wisconsin, stating that only those who signed the petition against activist judges could attend.
This isn’t Musk’s first time facing scrutiny for his financial maneuvers during elections. In the 2024 campaign, he promised to give away $1 million daily to registered voters in key swing states. However, the US Department of Justice issued a warning, suggesting his lottery-style giveaway could violate federal laws.
As public interest grows, the reaction on social media has been mixed. Some view Musk’s financial offers as harmless encouragement, while others see it as troubling interference in the democratic process. With so much at stake, this election is certainly keeping everyone on edge.
Check out this related article: Elon Musk Reveals He Sold X to Boost His A.I. Venture, xAI: What This Means for the Future
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