Elon Musk has ignited both controversy and legal challenges following his announcement of a plan to distribute $1 million checks to voters in Wisconsin, a move tied to the ongoing race for control of the state’s Supreme Court.
On Friday, March 28, Musk took to Twitter to publicize his widely debated initiative, stating that two voters would each receive $1 million as a gesture of appreciation for their participation in the election. The billionaire entrepreneur clarified that the offer was only extended to those who had already cast their votes. However, the announcement quickly drew criticism, prompting Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul, a Democrat, to file a lawsuit, alleging that Musk’s actions violated state election laws.
Kaul released a statement via Twitter, emphasizing the Wisconsin Department of Justice’s commitment to maintaining fair, secure, and lawful elections. He noted that Musk’s offer conflicted with state regulations prohibiting the exchange of anything of value as an incentive to vote. Consequently, legal action was initiated in an effort to prevent the distribution of the funds.
In his filing, Kaul asserted, “Wisconsin law prohibits offering anything of value to induce anyone to vote. Yet, Elon Musk did just that.”
Musk’s legal representatives countered by accusing the Attorney General of attempting to suppress Musk’s political expression and infringe on his First Amendment rights. They argued that the financial incentives were not intended to promote any specific candidate but rather to mobilize grassroots opposition against judicial activism.
The legal battle unfolded in the courts, with two lower courts ultimately ruling in Musk’s favor. Kaul’s attempt to escalate the case to the Wisconsin Supreme Court was unsuccessful, as the justices declined to hear the matter just minutes before Musk’s scheduled rally in the state.
Following the ruling, Musk appeared on stage in Green Bay on Sunday, March 30, where he publicly presented the $1 million checks to two voters who had signed a petition opposing activist judges.
Musk, along with former President Donald Trump, has openly endorsed Waukesha County Judge Brad Schimel, a conservative candidate in the Wisconsin Supreme Court election. Republicans hope that a victory for Schimel will shift the court’s balance in their favor.
Speaking at the event, Musk underscored the significance of the election, stating, “It’s a super big deal. I’m not phoning it in. I’m here in person. I think this will be important for the future of civilization. It’s that significant.”
Despite Musk’s endorsement, Schimel distanced himself from the event, telling the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that he was unaware of the rally’s purpose and had no involvement in its planning.
Schimel is running against Dane County Judge Susan Crawford in a closely watched race for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
