A recent Wall Street Journal investigation has cast a spotlight on Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, revealing allegations of illicit drug use not only by Musk himself but also among some of his closest business associates, including board members of his companies. The report, citing sources familiar with the matter, details instances of drug consumption ranging from cocaine and ecstasy to LSD and magic mushrooms, raising serious concerns about the corporate culture surrounding one of the most influential figures in the tech industry.
According to the report, Musk's circle, including Tesla board members Antonio Gracias and Steve Jurvetson, has been seen partaking in drug use alongside Musk. The investigation reveals that such activities have taken place in various social settings, from gatherings at Hotel El Ganzo in Mexico's San José del Cabo to parties in the Hollywood Hills, where Musk allegedly consumed liquid ecstasy.
These revelations come amidst worries about the potential impact of Musk's behavior on his professional responsibilities and the operations of his companies. The report suggests that Musk's conduct could jeopardize his security clearance, essential for SpaceX's government contracts, and possibly affect the company's adherence to regulations regarding a drug- and alcohol-free workforce.
In response to these allegations, Musk has maintained that he has been subject to drug testing since 2018, asserting that no traces of drugs or alcohol were found. On social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, Musk criticized The Wall Street Journal's reporting and defended his productivity, hinting that he would use drugs if they enhanced his work output over time.
NASA, one of SpaceX's major clients, stated that it has no evidence of noncompliance with workforce regulations from SpaceX, indicating continued trust in the company despite the concerning allegations.
The report also touches on the apprehensions of Tesla and SpaceX executives regarding Musk's alleged drug use. It mentions a specific incident where Musk's behavior at an all-hands meeting raised eyebrows among attendees, leading to SpaceX's president stepping in to take over.
As the tech community and the public digest these startling revelations, questions loom about the future of Musk's leadership and the potential repercussions for his companies. The allegations underscore the complex interplay between personal conduct and professional responsibilities, especially for figures whose actions can significantly influence their companies' fortunes and public perception.
