Topline

Elon Musk's pro-Trump super PAC continued its daily $1 million prize giving to registered voters in swing states who agreed to sign a petition on Thursday, despite reports from the Justice Department warning that the prices may violate federal law.

Important facts

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News Peg

Citing anonymous sources, CNN reported Wednesday that the Justice Department's Public Integrity Division, which investigates potential election crimes, sent a letter to America PAC “in recent days” warning that the $1 donation was being investigated million dollars to voters may violate federal law.

Important background

America PAC — which is almost entirely funded by Musk, according to Federal Election Commission filings — is giving away a $1 million prize every day to a random person who signs a petition on its website declaring “their” Support for the First and Second Amendments.” To qualify for the award, the person must be a registered voter in one of the seven key battleground states. The giveaway drew criticism from legal experts and raised concerns. They point to federal election law, which states that anyone who “pays, offers to pay, or accepts a payment to register to vote or to vote” faces a fine of $10,000 and five dollars – year imprisonment. Pennsylvania's Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro also criticized the gift, saying Musk was free to express his views, but “when you start pouring this kind of money into politics, I think it raises serious questions about it.” “Maybe people should look at it.” Musk, who supported former President Donald Trump and announced the drawing at a Trump rally, pushed back, saying the winner “can be of any political party or no political party and you don't even have to vote.” .

How much did Musk donate to America Pac?

Elon Musk has funneled more than $118 million of his fortune into funding the pro-Trump PAC, according to FEC filings released Thursday. Between October 1 and October 16, Musk donated $43.6 million to the PAC. The latest contribution is in addition to the $75 million in donations Musk made in the three-month period ending September 30.

Forbes rating

According to our estimates, Elon Musk's net worth is $269.8 billion – making him the richest person in the world. The billionaire's net worth rose by $26 billion on Thursday, fueled by a rise in Tesla's share price.

Further reading

Justice Department Reportedly Warns Elon Musk His $1 Million Voter Gifts May Be Illegal (Forbes)

Elon Musk Is Now Trump's Second-Biggest Donor: Donates Nearly $120 Million to Super PAC (Forbes)