Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner has filed a lawsuit against tech billionaire Elon Musk, challenging Musk’s $1 million giveaway targeted at registered voters in Pennsylvania. Krasner, a Democrat, asserts that Musk’s initiative, funded by the pro-Trump organization America PAC, constitutes an “illegal lottery scheme,” calling for an immediate halt to the operation.
According to court filings, Krasner argues that the giveaway amounts to a form of election interference, alleging that Musk’s project is designed to favor Republican turnout by incentivizing voter registration under the guise of a “prize draw.” Krasner contends that the giveaway effectively functions as a lottery, which is strictly regulated in Pennsylvania, especially concerning voter influence and election integrity.
The Musk-backed program, which promises ten individuals a cash prize of $100,000 each, encourages registered voters to enter the drawing regardless of party affiliation. However, Krasner’s lawsuit highlights concerns over its ties to America PAC, a group openly supporting pro-Trump candidates and causes. Krasner and his team argue that despite claims of nonpartisanship, the initiative selectively targets areas known to be critical battlegrounds for the GOP in Pennsylvania.
Critics and legal experts suggest the case may set a precedent for campaign finance boundaries as they relate to tech-driven initiatives. Musk, a frequent advocate for free speech and direct-to-public outreach via platforms like X (formerly Twitter), defends the giveaway, asserting that it aims to boost civic engagement. In response to the lawsuit, Musk commented on social media, calling the allegations “ridiculous” and claiming the program is an innovative way to encourage voter participation without political bias.
Public opinion on Musk’s voter giveaway is divided, with some applauding the effort to increase voter turnout and others raising concerns over the potential implications for election influence. Philadelphia officials assert that the lawsuit is necessary to protect the integrity of the electoral process and ensure compliance with state laws regulating lotteries and political contributions.
A hearing date has yet to be scheduled, but the case is expected to draw widespread attention given Musk’s high profile and the potential for this lawsuit to impact similar voter incentive efforts nationwide.
