Elon Musk Calls Out Media, Shares Negative Drug Test Results
Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has publicly refuted recent allegations regarding his drug use by posting his negative drug test results on X. In a bold move, he challenged major media outlets, specifically The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, to take similar tests and publish their results.
Direct Response to Media Allegations
The challenge came in response to a report accusing Musk of using multiple substances during his time advising the government. Musk posted a photo of his laboratory results, which showed negative results for fentanyl, ketamine, cocaine, amphetamines, and over 20 other drugs, adding a brief caption: "lol."
Expanding on his response, Musk called the media's claims out as habitual falsehoods, stating, "New York Times lies as easy as breathing. It’s normal for them." He also criticized The Wall Street Journal for what he labeled unreliable reporting, including incorrect stories about Tesla’s board searching for a new CEO.
The Challenge and Allegations Under the Spotlight
Taking a firm stand, Musk dared the two prominent newspapers to undergo drug testing and share their results publicly. He declared, "They won’t, because those hypocrites are guilty as sin."
The testing took place at Fastest Labs in South Austin, Texas, on June 11. Notably, Musk has acknowledged previous ketamine prescriptions to treat depression but denied recent or ongoing use.
Background: Media Claims and Musk’s Rebuttal
Earlier reports alleged that Musk used a "cocktail" of substances, including ketamine, ecstasy, and psychedelics, maintaining a daily regimen of roughly 20 drugs, such as Adderall. These claims sparked widespread attention and speculation, with one report suggesting ketamine use was impacting his health.
Musk dismissed these allegations as exaggerated, clarifying that he only tried prescription ketamine years ago and found it helpful for mental health but has not used it since. When questioned about drug use during a recent press appearance— notably with a visible black eye from a playful incident with his son—he told reporters to "move on."
Public Reactions and Ongoing Scrutiny
The controversy intensified after a US President referred to Musk as a "big-time drug addict," escalating the public discourse. Meanwhile, Musk’s firm refutations and transparency efforts through posting his drug test results appear to be his attempt to put the rumors to rest.
This episode highlights the challenges prominent figures face amid rampant rumors and media scrutiny, fueling debates about privacy, credibility, and accountability in public life.
