Philadelphia’s district attorney on Monday took legal action to stop Elon Musk’s contentious $1 million giveaway targeting registered voters. The lawsuit, filed in state court, portrays the initiative as a blatant violation of Pennsylvania’s lottery laws.
District Attorney Larry Krasner, a Democrat, initiated the civil lawsuit against Musk and the pro-Trump political organization, America PAC. The complaint contends that Musk’s daily cash prize offering amounts to an illegal lottery, designed to entice voters into providing personal information and pledging political support.
The court filing argues that Musk’s promotional efforts, which promise substantial financial rewards to voters in Pennsylvania and other critical swing states, constitute a lottery that falls outside permissible legal frameworks. According to Pennsylvania law, all lotteries must be administered and regulated by the state, the lawsuit underscores.
Despite the accusations, America PAC and Musk have remained tight-lipped on the legal challenge. Instead, the group’s focus on Monday was the announcement of the latest $1 million recipient: a voter from Hastings, Michigan.
The case has drawn widespread attention as it navigates the legal system. A judge has set a hearing for Friday, leaving the door open for Musk’s sweepstakes to continue through the week. However, Krasner’s office retains the option to push for an expedited resolution. The proceedings are now in the hands of Judge Angelo Foglietta, who, like Krasner, is a Democrat.
As the legal battle unfolds, the lawsuit emphasizes the high stakes of ensuring electoral integrity while preventing unregulated lotteries from influencing voter behavior. Whether Musk’s campaign will be forced to a halt remains to be seen, with both sides bracing for what could be a pivotal judicial decision.