In a shocking move, tech mogul Elon Musk has sparked controversy by offering $1 million prizes to registered voters in swing states who sign a pledge supporting his right-wing PAC. The sweepstakes-style award, announced at a rally in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, has raised eyebrows among election law experts, who claim it violates federal law.
According to UCLA political science professor Rick Hasen, Musk's incentive is "clearly illegal" under 52 USC 10307 (c), which prohibits paying or offering to pay individuals for registering to vote or voting. The pledge also includes bonuses for signers and those who recruit others to sign, further muddying the legal waters.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has expressed "deep concern" over the scheme, which may be prosecuted by federal authorities or result in a civil lawsuit. The move has sparked debate over the potential impact on the Presidential election, with some questioning whether Musk's gambit will ultimately benefit Trump's campaign.