Tech billionaire Elon Musk stirred up political tensions in Wisconsin by awarding $1 million checks to two voters, despite intense criticism and legal challenges from the state’s attorney general. The cash handouts coincided with a crucial Wisconsin Supreme Court election, drawing accusations that Musk was attempting to influence the outcome.
The recipients of Musk’s generous gifts were two Wisconsin men with strong ties to Republican campaigns and a history of supporting former President Donald Trump. Musk had previously stated that only vocal advocates of an online campaign against “activist judges” would qualify for the financial windfall.
Musk’s Involvement in the Wisconsin Election
During his visit to the state, Musk—wearing a cheese hat—spoke at a rally in support of Brad Schimel, a conservative candidate for the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Schimel has received more than $20 million in backing from Trump-aligned groups and Musk’s allies, making the race one of the most expensive judicial elections in state history.
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Wisconsin remains a key battleground state, and many liberal critics believe Musk’s involvement is part of a larger effort to reshape the state’s political landscape. With upcoming redistricting decisions on the line, some fear the Wisconsin Supreme Court could redraw district maps in a way that favors Republicans, potentially shifting control in Congress.
“If the court redraws the districts, Republicans could lose two seats, and that would threaten the progress we’ve made for the American people,” Musk said at the event.
Legal Challenge Falls Short
Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul made a last-minute attempt to block Musk’s cash giveaway, arguing that offering money in exchange for political support violates state election laws. However, the Wisconsin Supreme Court declined to intervene, following earlier rulings from two lower courts that dismissed the challenge.
The court did not elaborate on its decision, allowing Musk to proceed with the million-dollar gifts.
This isn’t the first time Musk has attempted such a move. Ahead of the 2024 election, he launched a similar initiative, offering $1 million prizes to voters in swing states who signed a petition in support of First and Second Amendment rights. In that case, a Pennsylvania judge ruled that there was insufficient evidence to prove Musk’s actions violated election laws.
The High Stakes of Wisconsin’s Supreme Court Race
As election spending in the state surpasses $80 million, the stakes are higher than ever. The Wisconsin Supreme Court is expected to rule on several major issues in the coming months, including:
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Abortion rights
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Congressional redistricting
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Union power
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Election rules for the 2026 midterms
These decisions could have long-term consequences, shaping the political landscape not only in Wisconsin but also in the 2028 presidential election.
While Musk’s involvement has drawn sharp criticism, his supporters argue that his actions reflect a commitment to free speech and political engagement. With Wisconsin’s Supreme Court race poised to impact the nation, the debate over money and influence in elections is far from over .
