Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur, has strongly denied allegations of drug abuse after a report by the New York Times claimed he was heavily using controlled substances during Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign. The NYT article alleged that Musk was using substances “far more intensely than previously known,” including ketamine, ecstasy, and psychedelic mushrooms.
Musk quickly took to social media to refute the allegations, stating, “Also, to be clear, I am NOT taking drugs! The New York Times was lying their ass off.” He did, however, admit to trying prescription ketamine a few years ago, which he said was publicly disclosed and helped him cope with “dark mental holes.” Musk emphasized that he hasn’t taken the substance since then.
The New York Times alleged that Musk’s ketamine use was so extensive that it affected his bladder, a known side effect of chronic use. The article also claimed that Musk traveled with a daily medication box containing around 20 pills, including the stimulant Adderall. It remains unclear whether Musk was using these substances during his tenure as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a role tasked with reducing federal bureaucracy.
During his time in the Trump administration, Musk exhibited erratic behavior, insulted cabinet members, and made a controversial gesture that some interpreted as a Nazi-style salute. His tenure was marked by clashes with administration officials, including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. Musk recently expressed disappointment with Trump’s spending bill, which he believed would increase the deficit and undermine DOGE’s mission.
Musk announced his departure from the government on Thursday, thanking Trump for the opportunity to reduce wasteful spending. Despite this, Trump suggested that Musk would continue to be involved, stating that he “is really not leaving” and would be “going back and forth.” The announcement comes amidst reports of a rift between Musk and administration officials, highlighting the tumultuous nature of his tenure.
