Elon Musk responds to accusations of drug use during the US election

Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur known for his ventures like Tesla and SpaceX, recently concluded his role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under President Donald Trump's administration.

While his tenure was marked by ambitious cost-cutting initiatives, it also attracted significant controversy, particularly concerning allegations of drug use and erratic behavior. This article delves into the multifaceted aspects of Musk's government involvement, examining the achievements, controversies, and the broader implications of his actions.

The Genesis of DOGE and Musk's Appointment

In an unconventional move, President Trump appointed Elon Musk to lead the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), aiming to streamline federal operations and reduce unnecessary expenditures. Musk's reputation as an innovator and disruptor in the private sector made him an appealing choice for this role. Over 130 days, Musk claimed that DOGE achieved $160 billion in spending cuts, with projections to exceed $200 billion. However, independent analysts have questioned the accuracy of these figures, suggesting they may be inflated.

The Controversial Farewell and Public Appearance

On May 30, 2025, Musk appeared alongside President Trump in the Oval Office to announce his departure from DOGE. Notably, Musk sported a visible bruise near his eye, which he attributed to playful roughhousing with his son, X Æ A-12. Despite the lighthearted explanation, the appearance sparked widespread speculation, especially in light of recent allegations concerning Musk’s drug use.

Allegations of Drug Use: A Closer Examination

A report by The New York Times alleged that Musk had been consuming substances like ketamine—reportedly affecting his bladder—as well as Adderall, ecstasy, and psychedelic mushrooms. Sources claimed that Musk traveled with a daily medication box containing approximately 20 pills, including those marked as Adderall. Musk previously admitted to using ketamine for mental health reasons, stating he took "a small amount once every other week" to manage negative moods.

Musk's Response and Public Perception

During the press conference, Musk dismissed the allegations without elaboration, criticizing The New York Times for sensationalism and drawing parallels to the publication's previous reporting on Russiagate. He emphasized his constant public presence, stating, "I'm photographed constantly," implying that any illicit behavior would have been documented. Despite his rebuttals, the allegations have raised concerns about his conduct during his tenure assisting the Trump administration.

The Impact on Musk's Business Ventures

Musk's alleged drug use has not only drawn political scrutiny but also raised questions about its impact on his business ventures. As the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, companies with significant government contracts, any misconduct could have serious implications. While Musk has claimed to undergo regular drug testing at SpaceX, reports suggest he may have received advance notice of these tests, casting doubt on their efficacy.

The Broader Political Context

Musk's tenure at DOGE coincided with significant political developments, including President Trump's announcement to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminum from 25% to 50%. Additionally, the administration introduced a new “Office of Remigration” aimed at repatriating undocumented immigrants. These moves, coupled with Musk's controversial presence, have contributed to a complex political landscape.

Public and Political Reactions

Reactions to Musk's departure have been mixed. President Trump praised Musk’s contributions, calling him a historic innovator and vowing to maintain DOGE reforms. However, Democrats like Senator Cory Booker denounced Musk's tenure as harmful and unaccountable. The event mixed political messaging with personal camaraderie, as Trump presented Musk with a symbolic golden key and touted the redecoration of the Oval Office.

The Future of DOGE and Musk's Role

Despite stepping down, Musk expressed ongoing support for DOGE, describing it as a "way of life" and promising continued influence. He emphasized fiscal discipline and framed colonizing Mars as only marginally harder than overhauling government finances. Musk announced plans to continue advising Trump and the U.S. DOGE Service even after formally departing the government to focus more on his companies.