FEC Chairman Calls Out DOJ Over Alleged Election Interference Targeting Musk’s PAC

The Department of Justice violated its own policies by sending a warning letter to Elon Musk’s political action committee (PAC) and then leaking the information to the media, according to Federal Election Commission (FEC) chairman Sean Cooksey. In a letter obtained by the Washington Free Beacon, Cooksey has called for an investigation into the DOJ’s actions by its inspector general.

The controversy stems from a DOJ letter sent to America PAC, Musk’s organization, on Oct. 23, just weeks before the presidential election. The DOJ’s Public Integrity Section raised concerns over a $1 million voter registration giveaway targeting swing states. The New York Times reported on the letter shortly after it was sent, prompting accusations of political interference.

Cooksey argues the DOJ’s actions were intended to sway the outcome of the election, citing the Justice Manual’s prohibition against “timing investigative steps or criminal charges for the purpose of affecting any election.” The FEC chairman also questioned whether the DOJ had the authority to issue such a letter, noting it stopped short of alleging any specific legal violation.

The giveaway, which aimed to encourage new voter registrations, was challenged in court by Philadelphia district attorney Larry Krasner (D). However, a state judge allowed the initiative to proceed, ruling it did not constitute an “illegal lottery.” Despite these legal battles, Musk and America PAC have not been charged with any wrongdoing, nor has the DOJ announced an active investigation into the matter.

Cooksey’s letter draws parallels to past abuses of power, stating, “This misuse of government power against President Trump’s campaign — so similar to the Department’s abuses during Watergate — is the reason why the Office of Professional Responsibility and the Federal Election Commission were created in the first place.”

Republicans have long criticized the Biden-Harris DOJ, accusing it of politicization and targeting conservatives. President-elect Donald Trump and his allies have pledged sweeping reforms at the DOJ, including potential terminations of career prosecutors deemed to oppose the administration’s agenda.

This incident underscores ongoing concerns about government overreach and the integrity of federal agencies, raising questions about the DOJ’s role in politically charged actions during a pivotal election.

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