Josh Shapiro, Pennsylvania governor from the Democrat party, called on law enforcement to probe Elon Musk’s promise at the weekend pro-Trump rally regarding a daily $1 million giveaway until the election.
On Saturday, Musk gave a $1 million check to a participant at the rally in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The event was organized by America PAC, a political group established by Elon Musk in support of Republican candidate Donald Trump for the presidential election on November 5.
Shapiro stated that Musk’s intention to provide funds to registered voters in Pennsylvania raises some concerns and should be investigated by law enforcement.
The giveaway is an example of Musk using his immense wealth to influence the election, which is staunchly contested between former President Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, Vice President and Democrat Candidate, with Pennsylvania being a highly strategic swing state for both sides.
America PAC plays a big part in mobilizing and registering voters in swing states that could turn the tide of the election, although the group shows signs of struggling to meet its goal.
Musk promised to award a $1 million giveaway daily to signers of his online petition, asserting the significance of the First and Second Amendments that guarantee freedom of speech and the right to bear arms. Signing the petition means a pledge to support both constitutional amendments.
According to America PAC, to be eligible for the giveaway, the petition signatory must be a registered voter and live in one of the seven swing states including Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.
Each eligible signer in Pennsylvania could also receive $100 for the signature and another $100 for referring another registered Pennsylvania voter to sign.
Meanwhile, according to a guideline on election crimes issued by the Justice Department, paying or rewarding people to cast a vote or to get registered is considered a federal crime with a prison sentence. This prohibition extends to various forms of remuneration, including money, alcohol, or opportunities to participate in lotteries.
Elon Musk, recognized as the wealthiest individual globally by Forbes, has reportedly spent over $75 million on America PAC, making them an indispensable part of Trump’s endeavor for the presidency.
