Story perspectives

Judge Orders Elon Musk to Testify in Giveaway Fraud Suits

6/26/2026

Summary

Musk Testify

Federal judge orders Elon Musk to testify under oath in two class-action suits over his $1 million-a-day giveaway.
Judge Susan Hightower recommended a fraud claim that Musk and America PAC deceived voters and dismissing the breach-of-contract claim.
Arizona plaintiffs Joy Harvick and Jacqueline McAferty allege voters were misled about prize randomness, that 18 winners became America PAC spokespersons, and that U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman will rule on the fraud claim.

Summary

Musk Sued

Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner sued Elon Musk and America PAC in October 2025, alleging the $1 million giveaways are illegal lotteries.
Law professor Rick Hasen warned that federal law forbids paying people to register or vote, making the voter-only giveaway unlawful.
In a February 2026 deposition, U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan Hightower heard America PAC director Christopher Young say he was surprised by Musk’s promise to pay randomly selected winners, showing doubt about legality.

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Musk Testify

Federal judge orders Elon Musk to testify under oath in two class-action suits over his $1 million-a-day giveaway.
Judge Susan Hightower recommended a fraud claim that Musk and America PAC deceived voters and dismissing the breach-of-contract claim.
Arizona plaintiffs Joy Harvick and Jacqueline McAferty allege voters were misled about prize randomness, that 18 winners became America PAC spokespersons, and that U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman will rule on the fraud claim.

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