Background on Elon Musk and His Relevance
Elon Musk, a prominent entrepreneur and business magnate, is renowned for his roles as CEO of Tesla Inc. and SpaceX, two companies that have significantly impacted the electric vehicle and space exploration industries. As one of the wealthiest individuals globally, Musk’s influence extends beyond technology, as he has been an active supporter of former U.S. President Donald Trump.
The New York Times Report
On Friday, The New York Times (NYT) published an article alleging that Musk extensively used ketamine, MDMA (ecstasy), psilocybin mushrooms, and other drugs during Trump’s 2024 campaign. The report claimed that Musk’s ketamine use became so severe that it led to urinary issues. Additionally, the article suggested Musk had consumed ecstasy and psilocybin mushrooms and traveled with a box of pills the previous year.
Musk’s Denial
In response to the NYT report, Musk took to his social media platform X on Saturday, vehemently denying the allegations. He stated, “To be clear, I am NOT consuming drugs! The New York Times is blatantly lying.”
Musk further explained, “I tried ketamine ‘prescribed’ a few years ago and mentioned it on X, so this isn’t even news. It helped me get out of dark mental places, but I haven’t taken it since.”
Contextualizing Musk’s Recent Activities
Musk had previously avoided questions about his drug use during an unusual appearance with Trump in the Oval Office on Friday. Musk, who appeared with a black eye, was leaving his formal role as the head of Trump’s Department of Efficiency and Government (DOGE) after Trump assumed power in January. The DOGE’s severe budget cuts led to the dismissal of tens of thousands of public employees.
The news of Musk’s injury drew considerable attention, arriving shortly after the NYT report on his alleged drug use. The article highlighted Musk’s erratic behavior, including his enthusiastic Nazi-style salute last year.
Musk claimed he injured himself while playing with his young son, X, instructing the child to hit him in the face.
Trump’s Response
When a reporter inquired about Musk’s supposed “regular drug use” during a press conference on Friday, Trump responded, “I was not aware.” He concluded by asserting, “I think Elon is a fantastic guy.”
Musk’s History with Drug Use
Musk has previously acknowledged using ketamine, stating it was prescribed to address a “negative mood state.” He suggested that his drug use positively influenced his work.
Key Questions and Answers
- What did The New York Times report? The NYT reported that Elon Musk extensively used ketamine, ecstasy, psilocybin mushrooms, and other drugs during Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign.
- How did Elon Musk respond to the allegations? Musk denied the claims on his social media platform X, stating that The New York Times was “blatantly lying.” He explained that he had used ketamine in the past but hasn’t taken it since.
- What is the significance of Musk’s recent activities? Musk’s injury and subsequent denial of drug use drew attention, especially considering the NYT report on his alleged substance abuse. His erratic behavior and past admissions of drug use have raised concerns about his well-being and capacity to lead his companies.
- How did Donald Trump react to the drug use allegations? When asked about Musk’s alleged drug use, Trump stated he was unaware of such activities and praised Musk as a “fantastic guy.”
