Musk is approaching politics the way a YouTuber like MrBeast approaches audience engagement.
Over the weekend, Musk handed out oversized novelty $1 million checks to two voters in Pennsylvania.
John Dreher, the first million-dollar winner, is a self-professed huge Musk fan.
SpaceX and Tesla founder Elon Musk awarded Kristine Fishell with a $1 million check during the town hall at the Roxain Theater on October 20, 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.© Photo by Michael Swensen/Getty Images
He did the jump like he did at the Butler rally, it was just really fun to see.
The videos are striking because they feel more like entertainment than politics.
But the billionaires latest scheme may violate campaign finance law.
Whats the petition?Its simple.
The First and Second Amendments guarantee freedom of speech and the right to bear arms.
By signing below, I am pledging my support for the First and Second Amendments, it says.
The cash is only available to some voters.
Expires October 21, the petition says.
If youre wondering if this is legal, youre not alone.
On Sunday, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapirocalled out Musks schemeon Meet the Press.
Musk obviously has a right to be able to express his views.
Hes made it very, very clear that he supports Donald Trump.
Obviously we have a difference of opinion, Shapiro said.
This one is clearly illegal, Hansen said of the $1 million giveaway.
Hansen pointed to section52 U.S.C.
10307(c)of U.S. election law and page 44 of the Justice DepartmentsElection Crimes Manual.
The matter isnt clear-cut.
In their videos, both Fishell and Dreher emphasized the importance of voting and voting early.
What will come of this?
Will Musk be prosecuted?
I think that will largely depend on the outcome of the Presidential election.
But one thing I know for sure: the future of American politics will have more MrBeast-style stunts.
Donald Trumpelection 2024Elon Muskmr.
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