Elon Musk becomes biggest donor in midterms to aid Republicans in New York

Elon Musk gave over $276 million since July to aid Republican congressional candidates in New York filings. The vast contributions place him as the largest known financial contributor in this election cycle. Federal campaign filings show the massive spending totals ahead of this week’s deadline.

Andrew Romeo confirmed the figures for Musk’s political action committee. The New York Times first reported the numbers. Musk is the only trillionaire in the world.

Musk sent funds to several key political committees:

• $158 million to the Senate Leadership Fund
• $76 million to America PAC
• $10 million to Lone Star Liberty PAC

The Senate Leadership Fund is the main super PAC aiding Republican Senate contenders. Lone Star Liberty PAC backs Texas Senate candidate Ken Paxton. America PAC built out a large turnout operation to assist Republican races.

The spending marks a change from last May. Musk said then that he planned to reduce his political giving.

“I think I’ve done enough,” Musk said at the time.

Musk maintained a lower profile than in 2024. He previously led the Department of Government Efficiency. He had a falling out with President Donald Trump, but they reconciled.

Trump awarded Musk the National Medal of Science last week. Musk’s wealth passed $1 trillion again last week, according to Forbes magazine. Stock price shifts drove the changes.

Super PACs are independent committees that raise unlimited sums from individuals to back candidates. These groups must report their donors regularly to federal regulators. Campaign disclosures document political donations across New York and the nation.

Republicans hold a large funding advantage over Democrats. The party faces voter frustration over inflation, presidential approval and the war with Iran.