A judge has ruled that Elon Musk’s America PAC giveaway can continue awarding $1 million to voters in swing states, despite legal challenges. Philadelphia District Attorney Lawrence Krasner had attempted to halt the giveaway, alleging it was an “illegal lottery.” However, Pennsylvania Judge Angelo Foglietta allowed the PAC to proceed, though he didn’t immediately explain his decision.
During a court hearing on Monday, Musk’s lawyer, Chris Gober, clarified that America PAC does not randomly select recipients. Instead, the group selects individuals based on their alignment with its values, Gober confirmed. America PAC has already picked its final recipient, reportedly a Michigan voter, to conclude the daily awards ending on Election Day.
Critics initially believed the Elon Musk’s America PAC giveaway was a random lottery for voters who supported the First and Second Amendments. Musk previously stated at a campaign event, “We are going to be awarding $1 million randomly to people who have signed the petition, every day, from now until the election.”
But Krasner’s lawsuit sought to stop the initiative, arguing it might violate election laws by incentivizing voter registration through monetary awards. Additionally, the U.S. Justice Department warned that payments linked to voting could breach federal election rules.
In court, Krasner’s team argued the PAC’s actions constituted an “admission of liability,” referencing video footage of Musk explaining that recipients would serve as spokespeople for the group. However, Chris Young, the PAC’s director, explained that recipients undergo a screening process to ensure they align with the PAC’s goals. They also sign non-disclosure agreements that prevent them from discussing the terms publicly.
On Monday, America PAC awarded the daily sum to an Arizona voter named Joshua. Musk, who skipped the court hearing, later appeared on Joe Rogan’s podcast, where he endorsed former President Donald Trump, with Rogan publicly supporting Musk’s perspective.
