A leading Democrat has urged an investigation into Elon Musk’s controversial $1 million pledge to voters, raising concerns over potential influence on the political process.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has proposed that police look into Elon Musk after the pro-Trump tech billionaire pledged money to individuals who supported his petition advocating for the US Constitution.
On Saturday, the CEO of X, SpaceX, and Tesla revealed plans to award $1 million daily to registered voters in swing states if they sign his petition advocating for “free speech and the right to bear arms.” That day at a rally in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, he presented the first check to John Dreher.
Musk, a supporter of Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump and speaker at his events, announced that the giveaway would continue until Election Day on November 5.
Shapiro, a former state attorney general and noted Democrat who was reportedly considered as a potential running mate for Vice President Kamala Harris, described Musk’s actions as “deeply concerning.”
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Shapiro told NBC’s Meet the Press, “I believe there are genuine concerns about his spending in this race and how dark money is being channeled, not only into Pennsylvania but seemingly also into the hands of Pennsylvanians.”
“It’s an issue law enforcement might consider investigating,” the governor added.
“Musk certainly has the right to express his views,” Shapiro stated. “I don’t deny him that right. However, when such substantial funds start influencing politics, I believe it raises significant questions that people might want to examine.”
The technology tycoon started publicly backing Trump following the former president’s narrow escape from an assassination attempt in July. Over recent months, Musk has contributed $75 million to the pro-Trump America PAC.
With polls remaining close and two weeks of campaigning ahead, Harris and Trump are currently vying for victory in the swing states of Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Nevada—states that will be essential to securing a win on election night.