Elon Musk donates 158 million dollars to support GOP Texas Senate candidate

Elon Musk contributed 158 million dollars to a Republican group supporting Ken Paxton in the Texas Senate election, according to documents released by the Federal Election Commission on Thursday. The Daily Mail and CNBC both reported that the donations went to the Senate Leadership Fund, which passed funds to a group assisting Paxton. [1][7]

The Daily Mail reported that Musk made two separate donations in September consisting of 75 million dollars and 83 million dollars. The money was routed to a Texas PAC supporting Paxton, who is currently facing Democratic candidate James Talarico in recent polling. [1]

The New York Times reported that Musk has become the largest known midterm donor. CNBC added that his donation helped the Senate Leadership Fund reach a record war chest of 273 million dollars as Republicans attempt to defend the Texas seat. [5][7]

CNN reported that Donald Trump has publicly criticized fellow Republicans over the struggling campaign, warning of potential political blame if Paxton loses the race. [2]