Post-election analysis and reports from political analysts and media

DA Krasner Challenges Musk's $1M-a-Day Giveaway as Illegal Lottery in Pennsylvania Court

Nov 4, 2024, 04:43 PM

A legal battle is unfolding in Pennsylvania over Elon Musk's $1 million-a-day giveaway to registered voters in swing states ahead of the U.S. presidential election. Musk announced the giveaways at a campaign event in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, stating that winners would be selected randomly from those who signed a petition. The Philadelphia District Attorney, Larry Krasner, has filed a lawsuit alleging that the giveaway constitutes an illegal lottery under state law. In court hearings, Musk's lawyers admitted that winners are not chosen at random but are selected to serve as paid spokespeople for Musk's pro-Trump political action committee, America PAC. The first two winners were present at Musk's rallies when their names were announced. A federal judge rejected Musk's bid to move the case to federal court, ruling that it must return to state court. The judge is now weighing whether to halt the contest, as the district attorney contends that the giveaway is a "scam" and "grift" designed to influence voters. The case has sparked debate over the legality of the sweepstakes and its potential impact on the election.