Musk's million-dollar cheques stir controversy in Wisconsin vote
Billionaire and advisor to the President of the United States, Elon Musk, handed two cheques worth $1 (CAD 1.4) million each to voters in the state of Wisconsin. He also promised $20 (CAD 28.6) payments to all who help elect the conservative candidate to the Supreme Court in this state. The elections are viewed by experts as a test of Trump's popularity, reports Reuters.
Voters in Wisconsin will decide on April 1 if the highest judicial body in their state will remain under liberal control or shift to conservatives. U.S. President Donald Trump and his advisor Musk endorsed Judge Brad Schimel, while Democrats support Judge Susan Crawford.
During a Sunday rally in Green Bay, Musk handed two cheques to voters who signed a petition against the activities of "activist judges." He stated that "we actually are in serious danger of losing the election."
Lawyers for Musk explained that these payments were "intended to generate a grassroots movement in opposition to activist judges, not to expressly advocate for or against any candidate."
Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul from the Democratic Party filed a lawsuit on Friday attempting to block Musk's disbursement of the cheques. He believes the billionaire's actions violate the law, which considers it a crime to give voters valuable items in exchange for their votes.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court unanimously refused on Sunday to hear the case after two lower courts had previously dismissed Kaul's complaint.
According to the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University, those connected with Musk have spent at least $17.5 (CAD 25) million supporting Schimel, which is over 20% of the $81 (CAD 115.5) million spent in total on both candidates' campaigns. It is estimated to be the most expensive judicial nomination race in U.S. history.
Experts have no doubts. The election is a test for Trump
The Supreme Court elections in Wisconsin are viewed by observers of the American political scene as a test of Trump's popularity among the electorate a few months after his return to the White House.
Tuesday's vote will also be crucial for future decisions regarding abortion rights, labour law changes, election law, and the redistricting process. This latter could impact the 2026 elections for the House of Commons and the Senate, as well as the presidential election in 2028.
