Elon Musk has stirred controversy ahead of Wisconsin’s Supreme Court election after the billionaire handed out $1 million checks to two voters during a rally in Green Bay. This giveaway is part of Musk’s effort to influence the election in favor of conservative candidate Brad Schimel, who is facing off against liberal candidate Susan Crawford. Musk also offered $20 for every voter recruited to back Schimel, further fueling debates over the influence of money in elections.
The April 1 election, already the most expensive judicial race in U.S. history with $81 million in spending, will determine the court’s stance on key issues like abortion rights, labor laws, and congressional redistricting. Musk warned that a liberal-leaning court might redraw districts in a way that would cost Republicans two House seats.
Critics argue that Musk’s financial power could undermine democratic processes, while his supporters view his actions as necessary to combat “activist judges.” Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul attempted to block Musk’s cash giveaways, arguing they violated election laws. However, the state’s Supreme Court rejected the challenge, allowing Musk’s financial influence to remain unchecked.
