Elon Musk has once again found himself at the centre of controversy, this time over explosive allegations in a New York Times report claiming the tech mogul used a cocktail of drugs while serving as a top adviser to Donald Trump.
The billionaire Tesla boss and X (formerly Twitter) owner was at the White House on Friday for what was supposed to be his official farewell as head of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency – or “Doge” – a bizarrely titled role he held as a special government employee under the Trump administration.
But amid a sea of praise, golden keys, and political fanfare, Musk was asked a far more uncomfortable question: what about the New York Times report alleging drug use at the highest levels of government?
Musk didn’t take kindly to the line of questioning.
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He replied bluntly: “Let’s move on,” when pressed about the article, swiftly changing the subject before launching into a rant about the paper's credibility, accusing it of publishing “lies about the Russiagate hoax.”
The NY Times article, which sent shockwaves through political and tech circles alike, claimed Musk had engaged in extensive drug use throughout his rise in political influence. It alleged that Musk regularly consumed ketamine, ecstasy, and psychedelic mushrooms. The paper also cited sources who said Musk’s medication stash included pills marked with Adderall labels and other substances.
Perhaps most shockingly, the report stated that Musk’s ketamine use was so frequent he reportedly complained of bladder issues linked to the drug. While Musk has previously downplayed his drug intake, suggesting he took “a small amount about once every two weeks”, insiders quoted in the article painted a much more extreme picture, suggesting near-daily usage at times.
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While Musk avoided directly addressing the claims on Friday, his visible appearance at the press conference – complete with a bruised eye (which he said came from his son punching him during play) – only added to the internet buzz surrounding the situation.
While some of Musk’s many supports may still come to his defence, critics argue that the allegations, combined with Musk’s significant influence in Washington, raise serious questions about judgement and transparency at the highest levels of power.
For now, Musk says he will continue to act as a “friend and adviser” to Donald Trump, even after formally stepping down from Doge. Whether further questions about his alleged drug use will follow him, or be brushed aside, remains to be seen.