Elon Musk presented $1 million checks to residents of battleground states who signed petitions defending free speech and the right to bear arms at a rally in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on Saturday night.
Musk handed John Dreher an oversized $1 million check. According to Musk, he was randomly selected to receive the amazing amount of money.
“So, I have a surprise for you…” the billionaire teased the enthralled crowd just before calling Dreher onto the stage to accept his prize.
“From now until the election, I’m giving away $1 million to a random person who signs a petition every day,” Musk announced, to thunderous applause from the audience.
SpaceX’s CEO previously announced that a super PAC he founded to support former President Donald Trump this election cycle would pay $100 to Pennsylvania voters who signed a petition. I had promised.
“If you are a registered voter in Pennsylvania, you and anyone you refer will receive $100 for signing our petition supporting free speech and the right to bear arms. Make money supporting something you already believe in! Offer valid until midnight Monday,” Musk posted on Thursday.
Musk reportedly bought the social media site and took it private in 2022 for $44 billion.
Since then, the entrepreneur has remained an outspoken advocate of free speech.
The electric car maker said it decided to donate the $1 million prize because “traditional media” did not report on his petition.
“How can we get people to know about this? I think this news will really get through!” he said before calling Dreher from the crowd.
Mr. Dreher grabbed the novelty check and threw his arms in the air as the crowd went wild.
“The only thing we’re asking for $1 million is for you to be a spokesperson for the petition,” the Tesla CEO said.
Dreher thanked Musk and congratulated him on his rocket catch.
“I’ve been following you for 10 years…I’ve been your biggest fan ever since,” said the lucky winner.
