Key Takeaways:
– Elon Musk’s America PAC is allegedly conducting a voter lottery, viewed as a potential violation of federal election laws.
– Requests have been made to the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate these activities.
– UCLA professor Rick Hasen argues the lottery serves as an inducement or reward, both of which are illegal under federal law.
– The DOJ investigation could result in criminal penalties for Musk and any voters involved in selling votes.
Elon Musk, the renowned billionaire and Tesla CEO, finds himself in hot water as his super PAC faces allegations of conducting an illegal voter lottery. This has led to calls for an investigation by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
The Alleged Voter Lottery Scheme
Musk’s America PAC is reportedly incentivizing registered voters with a chance to win lucrative sums daily leading up to election day. The participants stand a chance to win $1 million every day, but this giveaway has raised questions about its legality.
Elon Musk founded the America PAC, which has been making payments to voters in states like Pennsylvania. Critics argue that these payments are essentially ‘purchasing votes,’ which is a clear breach of federal laws. This has alerted former prosecutors and Republican appointees who have pushed for a quicker DOJ investigation.
Rick Hasen’s Standpoint
Rick Hasen, a UCLA professor, is calling this lottery an inducement to register, or a reward for registering, to vote. He argues that any form of financial persuasion to influence voter registration is illegal. Hasen stated, “This is a lottery accessible only to registered voters. It’s an inducement to register or a reward, both illegal under federal law.”
Musk’s Potential Reaction
Musk is expected to react to these allegations once the DOJ formalizes its investigation. He will likely try to maintain the lottery in the hopes of riding out the storm until election day. Alternatively, he may shut down the scheme and accuse the DOJ of election interference.
Criminal Penalties on Both Sides
If Musk is indeed found guilty of violating federal election laws, he could face criminal charges. It’s not just the billionaire who could face legal repercussions; any voter found selling their vote is also at risk of being criminally charged.
What’s Next?
The situation could turn sour for Musk if the DOJ takes up the investigation, which appears highly probable. Irrespective of the outcome, this case serves as a reminder of the strict rules around voting. All citizens, including influential personalities like Musk, are bound by the law.
In conclusion, this incident shines the spotlight on the importance of maintaining the sanctity of voting mechanisms. As the investigation unfolds, it will be interesting to see if this event serves as a precedent for future politics and regulations involving the stage at which tech giant’s power meets politics. Whether Musk chooses to ride out the storm or dismantle the lottery, both scenarios underline the seriousness of the situation.