Editor’s Note:

An earlier version of this article may have implied that Mikie Sherrill accepted direct donations from Elon Musk or the SpaceX corporation. In fact, the contributions came from the SpaceX employee-funded political action committee (PAC) — a common mechanism for workers at large companies to pool resources for political donations. Elon Musk did not personally donate, and SpaceX corporate funds were not involved. This version has been updated to reflect that distinction.

Clarifying the Record: Mikie Sherrill Received Legal PAC Donations from SpaceX Employees — Not Elon Musk

As political attacks ramp up ahead of New Jersey’s 2025 gubernatorial race, Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill has come under scrutiny over past donations from the SpaceX PAC, a federally registered political committee funded by employees of SpaceX — not the company itself or its CEO, Elon Musk.

According to Federal Election Commission (FEC) records, Sherrill’s congressional campaigns received a total of approximately $31,000 from the SpaceX PAC and individual contributors associated with the company between 2020 and 2024. The breakdown includes:

• $6,500 in 2020
• $7,500 in 2022
• $10,000 in 2024
• ~$1,000 in individual donations from SpaceX-affiliated employees

These donations were standard, lawful campaign contributions made during her time in the U.S. House of Representatives and are not linked to Musk directly or to any corporate initiative by SpaceX.

Campaign Response

Facing online criticism and political spin, Sherrill’s campaign emphasized that the donations were made during federal races, that no such funds have been accepted for her gubernatorial bid, and that the PAC operates independently of Elon Musk.

“The donations came from a registered employee PAC and individual donors, not from Elon Musk or SpaceX the company,” a spokesperson said. “Mikie Sherrill has never accepted contributions from Elon Musk, and she remains committed to holding powerful individuals accountable — regardless of political convenience.”

Unfounded Attacks Gain Traction

Despite the facts, some critics have attempted to draw a connection between Sherrill’s legislative efforts to scrutinize Musk’s influence in Washington and her receipt of PAC funds from SpaceX employees.

However, political finance experts note that such contributions are routine in federal elections and do not imply ideological alignment, endorsement, or personal involvement from company executives.

“This is a red herring,” said a former FEC staffer. “Employee PACs are common and regulated, and they don’t reflect corporate policy or executive intent — especially in cases like SpaceX, where the PAC is relatively modest.”

Sherrill’s Legislative Record

Sherrill has been outspoken in her concerns over Elon Musk’s growing influence in federal tech and defense matters. This year, she introduced a bill that would subject Musk to mandatory drug testing in his capacity as a “special government employee” advising federal agencies — citing national security concerns.

She also called for an investigation into potential conflicts of interest stemming from Musk’s simultaneous leadership of multiple government-contracted companies.

Conclusion

Attempts to paint Sherrill as hypocritical for past PAC donations ignore the reality of campaign financing — and mischaracterize both the source of the funds and her record.

As the 2025 gubernatorial race heats up, this incident underscores the need for accurate context in campaign reporting and political discourse.

Sources

• Federal Election Commission (FEC) Filings
• New Jersey Globe
• SaveJersey.com
• House.gov