During the previous weekend, entrepreneur Elon Musk responded to allegations exposed in an article by the New York Times. He refuted their assertions that he had engaged in intense substance use beyond what was rumored. Musk fiercely denied these accusations by stating categorically, ‘I am NOT on drugs! The New York Times was disseminating falsehoods.’
Musk reiterated that he had used prescription ketamine in the past, but emphasized that it was purely for mental health reasons during moments of severe depression. However, he clarified, in no uncertain terms, that this usage was not ongoing and insisted that it stopped several years ago. He expressed frustration that this context was not effectively communicated in the report.
Public Relations representatives from the New York Times addressed Musk’s reactions, suggesting his defensive responses were borne out of a dislike for the article rather than any factual inaccuracy. The team stressed that Musk was given ample opportunities for comment prior to publication, but chose to stay silent, preferring to share his perspectives via social media post rather than through formal channels.
The New York Times further defended their reporting, stating that their investigative journalists had produced a comprehensive report, providing an insightful look into Musk’s alleged drug habits. The report consisted of interviews with various individuals who had previous personal or professional relationships with Musk. In addition, they reviewed a series of communication exchanges, legal documents, and photographic evidence.
As per the contentious article that was published on May 30, the New York Times alleged that Musk’s substance consumption was frequent and pervasive. They revealed that Musk shared his drug usage details with close acquaintances, confessing that he was consuming ketamine so frequently that it was causing known side effects related to chronic use, such as bladder issues.
Musk’s alleged drug use was not limited to ketamine, according to the New York Times. They reported that he also used Ecstasy and psychedelic mushrooms. Moreover, the technological innovator was said to carry around a daily medication box filled with an assortment of approximately 20 pills. Among these included pills that reportedly bore the identifying marks of the stimulant, Adderall.
The climax of these allegations coincided with a major career shift for Musk. Last week, he announced his withdrawal from his role in the Trump administration, where he was heading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Despite leaving his official post, Musk indicated his intention to remain as an informal advisor to the president, thus continuing his influence within the administration.
At a public press conference hosted by the White House last Friday, where he formally declared his departure from the DOGE, Musk subdued any queries regarding the New York Times article on his supposed substance usage. His involvement with the Trump administration thus ended amidst these escalating drug use allegations.
Musk took a jab at the New York Times, appearing to question its credibility during the press conference. He rhetorically asked, ‘The New York Times — is that the same organization? I believe so.’ The underlying tone suggested skepticism of the newspaper’s reputation, following the recent controversies.
However, there was a certain ambiguity to Musk’s statements. The ruling that he referenced did not actually pertain to the New York Times at all. This case was not related to the New York Times but was instead a legal matter between Trump and the Pulitzer board.
It’s worth noting that a Florida-based state judge rejected a motion from the Pulitzer board to dismiss this lawsuit last year. The legal proceedings involving Trump’s lawsuit against the Pulitzer board were allowed to proceed, as the court refused to stall the case last week.
Musk’s cryptic reference to the dispute between Trump and the Pulitzer board, in response to questions about the New York Times reporting on his alleged drug use, underscores the complexity and layered facets of the story. His deflection perpetuates the ongoing saga between high-profile figures in the tech industry and the media entities that scrutinize their public and private life.
In the sphere of public perception and media narratives, accusations, counter-accusations, and rebuttals create an intertwined tale of events. The continuous exchange between Elon Musk and The New York Times illuminates this dynamic.
With Musk’s recently announced departure from a formal role within the Trump administration, the attention on him might intensify further, especially with the backdrop of the drug use controversy. Media narratives including this kind of high-profile exchange influence viewpoints, fuel debates, and engender public interest.
This ongoing narrative saga serves as an example of the complex relationship between major business figures and media houses. It elucidates the crucial role the press plays in holding powerful individuals accountable while showcasing the counteractive measures such figures often employ to defend their reputation.
As the narrative continues to unfold, the public eagerly awaits the next chapter in the story. The implications for Musk, The New York Times, and the broader tech and media industries are significant. As developments continue to emerge, the gravity of the allegations and their potential impact on Musk’s image and career sharply come into focus.
The post Elon Musk Fights Back Against NY Times’ Drug Use Accusations appeared first on Real News Now.
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