Elon Musk Petition Sparks Legal Concerns as Gov. Shapiro Questions Voter Payments
Elon Musk Petition Raises Alarm Over Cash Payments to Voters
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro expressed serious concerns regarding Elon Musk petition on NBC News, stating that the proposal to give cash prizes to registered voters is of notable legal interest. Musk's announcement to distribute $1 million daily until Election Day to random voters who sign a petition is raising alarms about the ethical implications in political funding.
Details of Musk’s Cash Plan
- Musk intends to give money to voters endorsing "free speech and the right to bear arms".
- The payments are conditional on signing a petition circulated by Musk's super PAC.
- Shapiro highlighted potential legality issues, echoing election law experts’ views that such payments could violate federal laws against voter bribery.
The Legal Landscape
Election law specialist Rick Hasen categorized these cash distributions as likely illegal, referencing federal statute 52 U.S.C. 10307(c). He emphasized that this strategy essentially creates a lottery limited to registered voters, raising grave ethical concerns over political integrity.
Potential Next Steps
As discussions circulate about the legality of Musk’s practices, federal authorities may take action either by legal prosecution or issuing warnings. Experts assert the need for a deterrent if the law is to maintain its authority over electoral practices.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.