lon Musk, the world’s wealthiest individual and tech mogul, has committed more than $70 million to support Donald Trump and other Republican candidates in the upcoming November election, making him one of the largest GOP donors this campaign cycle, according to newly released campaign finance records.
Musk made the significant contribution over the summer to America PAC, a super political action committee he founded in May to help Trump in his bid to reclaim the White House. The PAC quickly became a pivotal force in Trump’s 2024 campaign efforts.
“The America PAC is just aiming for common sense, centrist values,” Musk stated on his social media platform X on Tuesday, after campaign finance filings revealed the extent of his contribution.
Super PACs like Musk’s America PAC can raise and spend unlimited amounts of money but are generally prohibited from directly coordinating with the candidates they support. However, a recent ruling by the Federal Election Commission has allowed candidates and such groups to work together on certain voter mobilization efforts, such as door-to-door canvassing.
Trump’s campaign, facing financial challenges this year, has leaned heavily on outside groups like America PAC to lead its ground operations, with Musk’s group being a key player.
Outsourced Strategy for Trump’s Campaign
Trump’s reliance on outside organizations like America PAC marks a shift from traditional campaign strategies, which typically focus on independent voter outreach. Instead, Trump’s team is prioritizing turnout among his loyal base, a novel but risky approach.
So far, America PAC has allocated over $38 million for voter canvassing efforts, according to the financial disclosures. A significant portion of this money has gone to consulting firms, including those linked to Phil Cox, a former aide to Ron DeSantis and former Republican Governors Association executive. Cox’s companies have reportedly earned at least $21 million from the PAC since August.
More Than Just Musk
While Musk remains the primary donor to America PAC, he isn’t alone. The PAC has also attracted $8.75 million from other wealthy individuals, including Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss, the well-known twins linked to the creation of Facebook.
America PAC has spent nearly $80 million this year, most of it focused on the presidential race, though at least $5 million has gone toward supporting Republican candidates for the House of Representatives.