Elon Musk offers $100 to Wisconsin voters ahead of election
What's the story
Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, known for his association with Donald Trump, has launched a cash reward scheme for Wisconsin voters. His move comes as the state prepares for a crucial Supreme Court election on April 1. America PAC, a political action committee (PAC) backing Trump and largely funded by Musk, has vowed to reward $100 to each voter who signs a petition against "activist judges."
Petition details
Musk's petition calls for judges to strictly interpret laws
The petition, shared by Musk on X, asks Wisconsin voters to sign it by April 1. America PAC, which is supporting conservative candidate Brad Schimel for the Wisconsin Supreme Court seat, said "Judges should interpret laws as written, not rewrite them to fit their personal or political agendas." It also promised an additional $100 reward for each signer referred by a voter.
Previous initiatives
America PAC's history of cash incentives for voters
This isn't the first time America PAC has offered cash incentives to boost voter turnout. For the 2024 presidential race, it announced a daily $1 million lottery prize for randomly chosen petition signers in battleground states. However, the initiative came under the Justice Department's scrutiny under Joe Biden's presidency for possible violations of federal law prohibiting payments for voter registration.
Financial support
Musk's financial backing and political influence
Musk's America PAC and another organization he funds, Building for America's Future, have reportedly spent more than $14 million to support Schimel. The result will decide if the Wisconsin Supreme Court stays liberal or goes conservative. This election is critical as it could affect the decisions on abortion rights, public sector unions, voting regulations, and congressional district boundaries.
Legal proceedings
Tesla's lawsuit against Wisconsin and Schimel's political alignment
Musk's electric car company Tesla is currently embroiled in a case against Wisconsin for refusing to let it open dealerships; the case might go to the state's Supreme Court. Schimel has been campaigning with Donald Trump Jr, who emphasized electing Schimel was the way to protect Trump's agenda. America PAC has been handing out flyers to Wisconsin voters in support of this argument.