Elon Musk Hands Out $1 Million Checks to Wisconsin Voters After Court Refuses to Intervene — Sparks Outrage, Legal Battle, and Political Shockwaves

By [mc], Staff Writer

April 1, 2025 — In a move that has sent political shockwaves through Wisconsin and the nation, billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk appeared on stage in Green Bay Sunday afternoon, handing out $1 million checks to two voters—just moments after the state Supreme Court refused to block his controversial giveaway.

The dramatic sequence of events unfolded over the course of 48 hours, beginning with Musk’s unexpected announcement on Friday, March 28. In a tweet that immediately went viral, the Tesla and SpaceX founder declared he would give two Wisconsin voters $1 million each “in appreciation for taking the time to vote.”

What followed was a whirlwind of backlash, a lawsuit from the state’s top law enforcement officer, and a race against the clock to stop what critics called a “brash and dangerous attempt to influence an election.” But in the end, Musk stood triumphant on stage, flanked by cheering supporters—and two stunned voters holding seven-figure checks.

A High-Stakes Giveaway in a Pivotal State

Musk’s appearance came as Wisconsin heads into a fiercely contested race for control of the state’s Supreme Court. The outcome could have major implications for future rulings on voting rights, redistricting, and abortion access.

Though Musk claimed his financial giveaway was “non-partisan,” critics pointed out that the billionaire has publicly endorsed conservative Judge Brad Schimel—who is running against liberal Judge Susan Crawford for a seat that could shift the court’s ideological balance.

“This is more than a publicity stunt,” said political analyst Ruth Weathers. “It’s a calculated move to energize conservative voters in a swing state where every single vote matters.”

Legal Firestorm: “This Is Vote Buying, Plain and Simple”

Shortly after Musk’s tweet, Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul filed an emergency lawsuit, accusing Musk of violating state election law.

“Wisconsin law prohibits offering anything of value to induce anyone to vote,” Kaul said in his complaint. “Yet Elon Musk did just that.”

Kaul sought a court order to halt Musk’s plan, citing concerns about election integrity and setting a dangerous precedent that could open the door for billionaires to “buy influence at the ballot box.”

In response, Musk’s legal team fired back, arguing that the checks were a form of protected political speech—not an inducement to vote for a specific candidate.

“This is a grassroots movement against activist judges,” Musk’s attorneys stated. “Our client is not advocating for or against any one person. He is promoting civic engagement, plain and simple.”

Courts Side with Musk — Supreme Court Refuses to Intervene

In a stunning legal twist, two lower courts sided with Musk, allowing the rally to proceed. The final blow to Kaul’s legal effort came when the Wisconsin Supreme Court declined—unanimously—to hear the case, just minutes before Musk took the stage in Green Bay.

That ruling effectively gave Musk a legal green light, triggering one of the most unprecedented political spectacles in recent state history.

The Rally: Money, Momentum, and Message

Speaking to a crowd of around 2,000 attendees, Musk reiterated the importance of the upcoming vote.

“It’s a super big deal,” Musk said. “I’m not phoning it in. I’m here in person. I think this election is important for the future of civilization. It’s that significant.”

Musk then welcomed two voters—who had reportedly signed a petition opposing “activist judges”—on stage and handed each of them a $1 million check.

The crowd erupted in cheers, while critics online slammed the moment as “a slap in the face to democracy.”

Fallout Continues as Candidates Distance Themselves

Despite receiving Musk’s vocal support, Judge Brad Schimel appeared to distance himself from the billionaire’s efforts. Speaking to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Schimel said he had no involvement in the event.

“I have no idea what he’s doing,” Schimel said. “I have no idea what this rally is.”

His opponent, Judge Susan Crawford, issued a measured statement, saying, “Wisconsin voters deserve elections free from interference—especially when it involves billionaires writing checks at campaign events. Our courts must be independent and above influence.”

What Happens Next?

Experts say Musk may have succeeded in making a powerful political statement—but the legal and ethical implications of his actions could linger long after the checks are cashed.

“This raises serious questions about the role of money in elections, especially when it’s coming from private citizens with global platforms,” said election law expert Monica Dreyfuss. “The fact that it was allowed this time doesn’t mean it won’t be challenged again.”

Meanwhile, social media remains ablaze with fierce debate. Some praised Musk for “putting his money where his mouth is,” while others accused him of eroding trust in democratic institutions.

Regardless of which side you’re on, one thing is clear: Elon Musk’s million-dollar giveaway didn’t just shake up Wisconsin—it shook the nation.