Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has stirred controversy ahead of Wisconsin’s high-stakes Supreme Court election by offering $1 million cheques to voters in the state. The move has drawn legal challenges and public scrutiny, adding another layer of intensity to a race that could tip the balance of the state’s judicial system.

The $1 Million Giveaway:
In an unusual pre-election stunt, Musk pledged to distribute $1 million (£770,000) cheques to voters in Wisconsin. This announcement came just days before the state’s fiercely contested Supreme Court race, which is scheduled for Tuesday. Musk, who has supported the conservative side in the race, handed out two cheques at a Sunday rally, each worth $1 million, to voters who had signed a petition opposing what they term “activist judges.” The move has sparked widespread debate, with critics accusing Musk of attempting to influence the election.

Legal Challenges and Controversy:
The Wisconsin Attorney General, Democrat Josh Kaul, filed a lawsuit to block Musk's giveaway, arguing that it violated state law, which prohibits offering gifts in exchange for votes. However, Musk's legal team contended that the giveaway was not an attempt to buy votes, but rather an effort to fuel a grassroots movement against judicial activism, thus supporting free speech under the First Amendment.

Despite the legal battle, two lower courts sided with Musk, rejecting the lawsuit. On the eve of the election, Kaul sought an emergency intervention from Wisconsin’s Supreme Court. However, the state's top court unanimously declined to hear the case, effectively allowing Musk's giveaway to proceed.

The Impact of the Election on Wisconsin’s Supreme Court:
This election carries immense weight, as it could shift the control of Wisconsin's Supreme Court from a liberal majority to a conservative one. The race is the most expensive judicial election in U.S. history, with spending expected to surpass $81 million. Musk, a vocal supporter of conservative causes, has endorsed Judge Brad Schimel, a Waukesha County judge, who is facing off against Judge Susan Crawford, a liberal Dane County judge. The outcome of this election could influence critical issues such as abortion rights, gerrymandering, and voting rules, particularly ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Musk's substantial financial backing has played a key role in shaping the dynamics of this race. He has personally donated $14 million to Schimel's campaign, further cementing his influence in the contest.

Schimel and Musk’s Relationship:
While Musk’s financial backing has been significant, Judge Schimel has attempted to distance himself from Musk's public actions. In a recent interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Schimel expressed uncertainty about Musk's involvement, stating, “I have no idea what he’s doing. I have no idea what this rally is.” Schimel's comments highlight the delicate balance judges must maintain when navigating high-profile political endorsements.

Previous Giveaways by Musk:
This is not Musk’s first foray into incentivizing voter participation. Last year, Musk offered a similar $1 million daily prize for voters in Wisconsin and six other key battleground states who signed petitions in support of First and Second Amendment rights. A Pennsylvania judge later ruled that the giveaway was legal, dismissing concerns that it constituted an illegal lottery.

Musk’s Broader Political Influence:
Musk’s actions in Wisconsin add to his growing influence in American politics, where his involvement in political campaigns and social issues has become increasingly pronounced. His involvement in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race reflects his deepening interest in shaping legal outcomes that align with his political views. Whether or not his high-profile actions influence voters remains to be seen, but they undeniably highlight the intersection of wealth, politics, and the legal system.

Looking Ahead:
As Wisconsin voters head to the polls on Tuesday, the implications of Musk’s $1 million giveaway are still unfolding. The race has become a referendum on judicial independence, political influence, and the balance of power in Wisconsin's legal system. With significant financial backing from Musk and the attention of national political figures like former President Donald Trump, this election could have lasting effects on the state’s judicial landscape and beyond.

‍