The American Democracy Minute Radio News Report & Podcast for Aug. 25, 2026
MADISON, WI — In a 2025 Wisconsin Supreme Court race, Elon Musk gave $1 million dollar checks to three voters, quote, “In appreciation for you taking the time to vote.” The Wisconsin Elections Commission found probable cause that he violated the state’s Election Bribery statute, and it’s finally being prosecuted.
At the time, Wisconsin’s Attorney General challenged the giveaway, but the Wisconsin Supreme Court refused the case, allowing it to stand.
The Wisconsin Elections Commission investigated and found probable cause that Musk and his America PAC likely violated the state’s Election Bribery statute. That statute says any person who induces any voter to go to, or refrain from, going to the polls, or vote, or refrain from voting, is in violation. July 9th, the commission voted 5-1 to refer it for prosecution.
Wisconsin Public Radio reports that August 7th, the Brown County district attorney recused his office because of a conflict, and turned the case over to La Crosse County’s DA for prosecution.
In the meantime, a federal case is pending for a similar ploy in the 2024 election. A Musk statement allegedly suggested the million-dollar winners would be chosen at random, but recent admissions from Musk’s attorney said they were chosen for their ability to be spokespersons. A trial is scheduled for July 2027, with Musk compelled to testify.
We have more at AmericanDemocracyMinute.org. I’m Brian Beihl.
oday’s Links
Articles & Resources:
Wisconsin Legislature – Election Bribery Statute
Wisconsin Elections Commission – Referral to Brown County DA for Prosecution
Wisconsin Examiner – Elon Musk likely broke law with $1 million voter checks, Elections Commission says
Wisconsin Public Radio – Citing ‘conflict of interest,’ Brown County DA hands Elon Musk case to La Crosse County
Casino.org – Federal Case – Elon Musk’s $1M Election Giveaway Was ‘Far From Random,’ Says Federal Judge
Related ADM Reports:
American Democracy Minute – Wisconsin AG Appeals to State Supreme Court to Block Elon Musk’s Million Dollar Lottery for WI GOP Voters – Oops – Make that ‘Spokesmen’
American Democracy Minute – Federal Judge Won’t Dismiss Class Action Suit Against Elon Musk
Groups Taking Action:
Law Forward, Wisconsin Democracy Campaign
Register or Check Your Voter Registration:
U.S. Election Assistance Commission – How to Register And Vote in Your State
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