Over the recent weekend, Elon Musk responded to allegations from The New York Times regarding his supposed increased drug use. Musk insisted, ‘I have NOT been consuming drugs! The allegations put forth by The New York Times are based on falsehoods.’ He did admit to having used prescribed ketamine in the past, stating that it served as a tool to assist him in overcoming periods of severe depression, but emphasized that he has discontinued its use.
Following Musk’s defence, The New York Times’ Public Relation team stated, ‘Elon Musk is merely expressing his discontent with the article we published. Numerous opportunities were tendered for Musk to provide his input, but he declined and instead chose to vent his dissatisfaction through a social media post, without any tangible proof to back his claims.’
The New York Times press team further stated that the team of journalists who worked on the story compiled a comprehensive report which gives a fair insight into Musk’s supposed drug use. The journalists interviewed several people who either knew Musk or had professional encounters with him and studied private messages, legal papers, and photographic proof to ensure the fairness and accuracy of their report.
The article in question, published on May 30, claimed that Musk’s drug use extended far beyond just occasional usage. According to the article, Musk was consuming ketamine, a potent anesthetic, in such quantity that it had begun to affect his bladder, an effect commonly observed in those who chronically use the substance. His drug repertoire also included Ecstasy and psychedelic mushrooms, as per the claims in the newspaper piece.
The Times described that Musk carried a daily medication box containing nearly 20 pills. These allegedly included pills resembling Adderall, a well-known stimulant. This claim was substantiated by a picture of the said medication box and statements from individuals who claimed to have seen the box.
Recently, Musk made the announcement that he would be stepping back from his role in the Trump Administration. He held a significant position in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), however, he stated that he would still be available to provide informal advice and consultation to the president.
In a recent press conference at the White House marking his departure from the DOGE, Musk chose to avoid answering a query relating to the allegations on his drug use put forth by The New York Times. He instead tried to divert the attention by questioning the veracity of the newspaper itself, stating ‘The New York Times — isn’t that the same publication?’
Musk implied that The New York Times was entwined in legal troubles with President Trump. While it is true that there is ongoing legal action, it is against the Pulitzer board, not The New York Times. Thus, the context that Musk implied was inaccurate.
Last year, a Dade County court in Florida ruled against the Pulitzer board’s motion to dismiss a lawsuit brought against them by President Trump. Furthering the same litigation, just last week, a state court denied the board’s appeal to halt the proceedings. The continued lawsuit was seen as a green light for Trump’s claims to go forward.
Do note that Musk’s claims about the New York Times’ involvement is technically incorrect. The newspaper is not involved in Trump’s suit against the Pulitzer board. Musk seems to have muddled the legal context and presented an inaccurate scenario to the public.
Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that while Musk insinuated The New York Times’ involvement in a legal dispute with Trump, the newspaper was not a party to the suit. Trump’s litigation is directed solely towards the Pulitzer board.
In the end, the debate remains on whether Musk’s statements regarding the newspaper and his drug use are well-founded. The New York Times stands by its story, and Musk continues to reject the allegations of his purported substance abuse.
Despite the allegations and ensuing controversy, it is apparent that Musk will continue pursuing his objectives. His recent departure from the Trump administration does not seem to deter his intent to stay involved, albeit informally.
The ongoing debate surrounding Musk’s position, and the continued legal battles, suggest that this issue is far from resolved. Yet, amid these swirling controversies and allegations, Musk remains steadfast in his denials and continues his work undeterred.
Whatever the future may hold for Musk, it is clear that he will continue to be a formidable figure in the tech industry. While controversies might color public perceptions, the story of Elon Musk continues to unfold dramatically.
The post Elon Musk Denies Increased Drug Use Claimed by The New York Times appeared first on Real News Now.
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