Elon Musk, the prominent CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, is facing allegations of erratic behavior due to extensive use of illicit drugs, according to a Wall Street Journal report citing anonymous sources close to the tech mogul. The report alleges that Musk has been consuming substances such as LSD, cocaine, ecstasy, psychedelic mushrooms, and ketamine, often at private parties.
These allegations have reportedly raised concerns among executives at Tesla and SpaceX regarding Musk's behavior and its potential impact on his businesses. The 52-year-old entrepreneur has previously acknowledged using ketamine as an antidepressant, stating in an X post from August 2023 that he has a prescription for the drug. However, these recent claims suggest a broader pattern of substance use.
In a response to the Wall Street Journal's report, Musk's attorney, Alex Spiro, firmly denied the allegations, emphasizing that Musk is "regularly and randomly drug tested at SpaceX and has never failed a test." Spiro also criticized the report for containing "false facts."
The controversy surrounding Musk's behavior isn't new. His marijuana use during an appearance on Joe Rogan's podcast in September 2018 reportedly triggered a Pentagon review of his security clearance due to his role at SpaceX, which launches military spy satellites. Following the incident, Musk agreed to three years of random drug testing at NASA's request, during which he claims no traces of drugs or alcohol were found.
Aside from the drug allegations, Musk has consistently been a figure of controversy due to his actions and decisions. Recently, he reinstated far-right conspiracy theorist Alex Jones on X (formerly Twitter), who was previously banned for violating the platform's abusive behavior policy. Musk's unpredictable behavior has reportedly led to former Tesla director Linda Johnson Rice's decision not to seek re-election to the board in 2019.
Musk's influence extends beyond Tesla and SpaceX, overseeing a portfolio of companies including X, The Boring Co., brain implant developer Neuralink, and artificial intelligence startup xAI. With SpaceX being the only US-based company approved to transport NASA astronauts to and from the International Space Station and increasing Pentagon purchases, Musk's leadership and behavior are of significant interest to various stakeholders.
As these allegations surface, the tech community and the general public are left to ponder the potential implications of Musk's alleged drug use on his capacity to lead his companies effectively. With a reputation for sparking controversies and an extensive business empire, the scrutiny over Musk's personal conduct remains intense, reflecting the broader debate on the accountability and responsibilities of high-profile business leaders.