Tech mogul Elon Musk has ignited a fresh political storm after backing a cash giveaway for Wisconsin voters who sign a petition opposing so-called “activist judges.”
The petition, promoted by America PAC, a pro-Trump political action committee (PAC) founded by Musk, is offering $100 per signer and an additional $100 for each referral. The deadline? April 1, the day Wisconsin elects a new Supreme Court judge—a pivotal decision in the key swing state.
Musk’s Latest Political Gamble
Musk shared the petition on his platform, X (formerly Twitter), urging voters to help shift Wisconsin’s judicial landscape. America PAC is throwing its weight behind conservative candidate Brad Schimel, arguing that judges should “interpret laws as written, not rewrite them to fit personal or political agendas.”
The move comes as President Donald Trump faces multiple legal roadblocks to his policies, particularly on immigration. This week, he publicly attacked District Judge James Boasberg, calling for his impeachment after a ruling that clashed with the administration’s deportation efforts.
Federal Concerns Over Musk’s Tactics
Musk’s financial backing of America PAC, to the tune of $238 million, has fueled concerns over election integrity. The Justice Department has already warned that similar cash incentives—like a $1 million lottery for petition signers in battleground states—could violate federal election laws, which prohibit paying people to register to vote.
Despite legal scrutiny, Musk and America PAC remain undeterred, continuing their efforts to shape the 2024 election through bold and controversial incentives.
Cash for Signatures: A Game-Changer or a Legal Minefield?
Critics argue that offering cash for petition signatures blurs ethical lines, while supporters see it as a strategic counter to judicial overreach. As the April 1 deadline looms, all eyes are on Wisconsin to see whether Musk’s money will tip the scales.
