Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro raised alarms on Sunday regarding Elon Musk’s controversial plan to pay registered voters in the state, calling it “deeply concerning” and suggesting that “it’s something that law enforcement could take a look at.”
Shapiro’s remarks came during an appearance on NBC News’ “Meet the Press,” following Musk’s announcement that he would distribute $1 million daily to a randomly selected registered voter who signs a petition related to his super PAC advocating for “free speech and the right to bear arms.”
The initiative, which ties participation to attendance at Musk’s rallies, has drawn sharp criticism from election law experts. Musk made headlines on Saturday when he surprised an attendee at a rally by presenting the first $1 million check.
While Shapiro acknowledged Musk’s right to express his political beliefs, especially his support for former President Donald Trump, he emphasized the potential legal ramifications of such financial incentives in the electoral process.
“When you start flowing this kind of money into politics, I think it raises serious questions,” Shapiro stated.
Legal experts quickly pointed out that Musk’s cash giveaways could violate federal election laws.
Rick Hasen, a law professor at UCLA and an NBC News election law analyst, labeled the payments “clearly illegal,” citing 52 U.S.C. 10307(c), which prohibits payments for voting or voter registration. Hasen explained that the initiative essentially creates a lottery limited to registered voters, which is against the law.
“The general intent behind these laws is to prevent vote-buying,” Hasen said, noting that incentivizing voter registration or participation with cash rewards constitutes a violation.
As of now, there is no indication that federal authorities are investigating Musk’s payments. However, Hasen suggested that they could either pursue legal action or issue a formal warning to cease the practice.
“If this law is going to be enforced, it needs to be deterred,” he added.
Watch the interview below:
In 2020, Mark Zuckerberg spent $400M+, not to mention Act Blue. Dems/Meet the Press were okay with it.
But they’re mad at @elonmusk’s giveaways to petition-signers
Josh Shapiro: It's dark money “It raises serious questions…something that law enforcement could take a look at" pic.twitter.com/uXNH8feCun
— Eddie (@Eddies_X) October 20, 2024
Musk and representatives from his super PAC have not yet responded to requests for comment on the legality of the initiative.
