Washington — November 5, 2025 | LIVE UPDATE
U.S. Election Day 2025 is unfolding with record-breaking voter turnout, long lines at polling sites, and scattered disruptions — including security threats and legal challenges.
In one of the day’s headline moments, a Pennsylvania judge issued an injunction blocking Elon Musk’s $1 million giveaway, which the billionaire had announced as an “election engagement campaign.” The ruling cited potential violations of state election laws prohibiting financial incentives tied to voting.
Record Early Voting Shatters Previous Highs
Election officials across the country report record early and in-person voting, with turnout levels surpassing the previous peak set in 2020.
States like Georgia, Michigan, and Arizona saw long lines form before sunrise.
Mail-in ballots are at historic highs, especially in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
Voters aged 18–29 are showing strong engagement, according to early exit data.
“This level of participation shows democracy is alive and vibrant,” said an official from the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.
Pennsylvania Court Halts Musk’s Giveaway
The Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania temporarily blocked Elon Musk’s planned $1 million “X Election Giveaway,” ruling that any prize or contest linked to voter behavior “may constitute unlawful inducement.”
Musk’s post on X (formerly Twitter), which promised random cash prizes to “verified American voters,” was deleted after the ruling.
The judge’s order states:
“While civic participation should be encouraged, offering financial rewards tied to voting violates the spirit of electoral neutrality.”
Legal experts expect appeals, but the injunction effectively stops the campaign for the rest of Election Day.
Security Concerns and Bomb Threats Reported
Several polling sites in Arizona, Pennsylvania, and Ohio reported temporary closures due to bomb threats, though authorities say all sites have since been cleared and reopened.
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that no credible explosives were found, labeling the incidents as “disruptive hoaxes.”
Officials in Georgia and North Carolina also reported brief digital disruptions, but federal monitors said voting systems remain “secure and operational.”
Voters Face Long Lines and Delays
Despite challenges, turnout remained strong throughout the morning and afternoon.
Election boards in Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Detroit extended voting hours at select precincts due to late openings and high turnout.
Observers praised voter patience and strong local coordination to keep polling stations open and accessible.
What’s Next
Polls begin closing on the East Coast at 7:00 p.m. ET, with major network projections expected by 9:00 p.m.
Officials continue urging calm and patience as millions of mail-in ballots are processed in key battlegrounds, including Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Arizona.
