World: Court orders Elon Musk appearance over controversial $1m giveaway as US election draws close
A judge has ordered Elon Musk to attend a court hearing in Philadelphia today, Thursday, October 31, 2024, over a lawsuit filed by the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office.
The lawsuit aims to stop Musk’s America PAC, which supports Republican former President Donald Trump, from awarding $1 million to registered U.S. voters in battleground states ahead of the November 5 U.S. election.
The District Attorney’s Office alleges that Musk’s giveaway is an “illegal lottery” that encourages Pennsylvania residents to share personal data.
The decision has sparked concerns about the legitimacy of the election process. The judge has mandated that all parties, including Musk, be present at the hearing, which was rescheduled from Friday to Thursday morning.
Musk’s America PAC has promised to give $1 million daily to individuals who sign his online free-speech and gun-rights petition. However, legal experts are divided on whether this giveaway violates federal laws prohibiting payment or offers of payment to register voters. The Justice Department has also warned America PAC that Musk’s giveaways may breach federal law.
The lawsuit’s timing is critical, as Donald Trump faces Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris in a tight White House race.
With polls showing a slim lead for Harris, the role of outside groups like Musk’s America PAC has become increasingly significant. As the world’s richest man, Musk’s influence could potentially impact the election’s outcome.
The hearing on Thursday will determine whether Musk’s giveaway can continue or if it will be halted due to potential legal violations.
