The New York Times recently stood firm on its investigative report detailing Elon Musk’s alleged drug use amid mounting public and media scrutiny. The tech billionaire and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX has vehemently denied the accusations, labeling the report as false and defamatory, yet the newspaper insists its journalism is rigorously sourced and fair.
This clash underscores the ongoing tension between Musk's public persona and the media's role in uncovering the complexities behind one of the most high-profile figures of the 21st century.
The original report, authored by Kristen Grind and Megan Twohey, painted a troubling picture of Musk's behavior during the 2024 presidential campaign trail, revealing that he allegedly used several potent substances, including ketamine, ecstasy, and psychedelic mushrooms.
The article claimed Musk’s ketamine use was so extensive that it led to bladder issues, a recognized side effect of chronic exposure to the anesthetic. Additionally, the piece highlighted his habit of carrying a pill box containing approximately 20 different medications during his travels.
Despite the gravity of these allegations, Musk took to his social media platform, X, to vehemently refute the claims. His statement was unequivocal: “To be clear, I am NOT taking drugs! The New York Times was lying their ass off.”
Musk admitted to trying prescription ketamine a few years ago for mental health reasons but emphasized that he had not used the substance since. He framed his past usage as a therapeutic measure to combat depressive episodes rather than recreational drug use.
In response, The New York Times released a detailed statement defending their work. They asserted that their investigation was thorough and transparent, drawing from interviews with over a dozen individuals who had personal or professional interactions with Musk.
The reporters also had access to private text messages, legal documents, and photographic evidence corroborating their claims. The Times countered any suggestion that Musk was denied a chance to respond, emphasizing that they offered him multiple opportunities to comment before publishing but were met with silence or diversionary tactics.
This confrontation between a leading media outlet and one of the world’s most influential figures reveals deeper questions about celebrity privacy, journalistic responsibility, and public accountability.
Elon Musk’s career trajectory—from founding revolutionary companies like Tesla, SpaceX, and Neuralink to becoming an influential political adviser—has made him a magnet for both adulation and controversy.
His unconventional behaviors and bold statements often generate headlines, but the recent drug use allegations have shifted the conversation into uncharted and uncomfortable territory.
Musk’s tenure at the helm of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a White House initiative aimed at trimming federal bureaucracy, has also come under scrutiny in light of the report.
While the Times could not confirm whether Musk was actively using drugs during his time in government service, it noted instances of erratic behavior that raised eyebrows.
Musk’s role in firing thousands of federal employees and restructuring key agencies was already contentious, and the drug allegations add a layer of concern about his fitness for such responsibilities.
The public reaction to the report has been mixed. Musk’s supporters often attribute his unconventional actions and demeanor to Asperger’s syndrome, a condition he has openly discussed, and dismiss the accusations as media sensationalism aimed at undermining a powerful figure.
Critics, on the other hand, see the revelations as indicative of deeper issues, raising questions about the pressures and excesses that can accompany extreme wealth and influence.
During a recent press conference held in the Oval Office, where Musk appeared alongside President Donald Trump to mark the end of his official government service, a Fox News reporter attempted to question Musk about the drug allegations.
Musk, however, deflected the inquiry by attacking The New York Times’ credibility, referencing past controversies surrounding the publication, such as its Pulitzer Prize-winning coverage of the Russiagate investigation, which Musk claims was false.
The legal battle surrounding these claims may intensify, as Musk has previously indicated his willingness to pursue defamation suits against media outlets he perceives as publishing falsehoods.
Meanwhile, The New York Times remains steadfast, asserting the integrity of its reporting and the importance of holding public figures accountable, regardless of their stature.
This unfolding saga illustrates the complex intersection of fame, power, and media in the digital age. As Elon Musk continues to shape industries from automotive to space exploration and AI, his personal life and conduct remain under the microscope.
The tension between Musk’s denials and the media’s revelations highlights a broader societal debate on how to balance transparency, privacy, and the public’s right to know.
For now, the narrative remains in flux. Elon Musk’s career and legacy are being tested not just by technological and business challenges but also by the court of public opinion, where allegations such as these can have profound implications.
Whether the truth of these claims will fully emerge or be obscured by legal battles and media battles remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that the dialogue surrounding Musk’s behavior and its impact on his enterprises and political involvement will continue to captivate and divide audiences worldwide.
