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Billionaire Elon Musk's action, through America PAC, aims to support conservative candidate and reignites debate on financial influence in judicial elections in the US
Elon Musk has once again sparked controversy in the American political scene. This time, the billionaire is offering $100 to registered voters in the state of Wisconsin to sign a petition against “activist judges.” The action is promoted through his political action committee, America PAC, which also promises an additional bonus of $100 for each new signature indicated by a voter.
The petition has as a goal demonstrate support for the strict interpretation of the Constitution, according to the PAC. “Judges should interpret the laws as they are written, not rewrite them to suit their personal agendas,” the document states, according to the Business Insider portal.
Wisconsin Supreme Court fight is Elon Musk's focus
The move comes ahead of the statewide election for Wisconsin Supreme Court, scheduled for April 1, 2025. The position at stake could alter the ideological balance of the court, influencing decisions on abortion, voting laws and legislative redistricting. America PAC is backing conservative candidate Brad Schimel, the state’s former attorney general.
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The AP News website reported that Elon Musk's initiative has been met with concern by entities that monitor election integrity. During the 2024 presidential election, similar tactics were used by the same PAC, prompting the US Department of Justice to issue a warning about possible legal violations.
Debate on legality and ethics
According to Vanity Fair, Elon Musk offering money in exchange for political support could be interpreted as an attempt to buy electoral influence. Legal experts argue that, although technically it is an “incentive for civic participation”, the practice comes dangerously close to rape of American electoral law.
The state's political community is closely following developments. According to analysts interviewed by Axios, the case could set a precedent regarding the role of large fortunes in local judicial campaigns. The issue reignites the debate on private financing and the independence of the judiciary in the United States.
What supporters and critics say
Supporters of Elon Musk's campaign say the financial incentive is intended to engage apathetic voters and increase participation in important court decisions. America PAC told reporters that it is legal and that all signatures will be verified.
On the other hand, opponents point out that the strategy could undermine confidence in the electoral process, making it dependent on financial capacity influencers and business groups. The discussion, according to The Verge, is taking on national proportions, as the state Supreme Court has an indirect impact on issues of federal interest.
