ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Elon Musk’s final appearance in the White House as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) was overshadowed Friday by fresh allegations of heavy drug use, casting a shadow over his high-profile role in the Trump administration.
A New York Times report published hours before Musk’s farewell press conference alleged that the tech billionaire used significant amounts of ketamine during the 2024 campaign trail, reportedly to the extent of developing bladder issues. The article also claimed Musk had taken other substances, including ecstasy and psychedelic mushrooms, and frequently carried a pill box.
White House Responds Cautiously
The report has prompted questions about oversight during Musk’s tenure in government. However, White House officials sought to deflect the scrutiny.
“The drugs that we’re concerned about are the drugs running across the southern border,” said Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller when asked about the allegations.
When pressed on whether Musk had undergone drug testing while in office, Miller deferred:
“You’ll have the opportunity to ask Elon all the questions you want today yourself,” he told CNN.
Musk has previously acknowledged using ketamine, stating it was prescribed for mental health reasons and that it positively impacted his work.
Farewell with Fallout
Musk’s departure marks the end of a turbulent four-month stint as Trump’s so-called “efficiency czar.” Though Trump praised Musk as “terrific” on Truth Social and insisted his influence would continue, the farewell lacked the fanfare of Musk’s earlier White House appearances, when he was often seen accompanying Trump on official trips and events.
“This will be his last day, but not really, because he will, always, be with us, helping all the way,” Trump posted.
Despite initial enthusiasm and bold promises to cut \$2 trillion from federal spending, Musk’s DOGE initiative reportedly achieved far less. Independent analysts, including watchdog site Doge Tracker, estimate the total savings at just \$12 billion, while The Atlantic puts the number closer to \$2 billion.
Internal Divisions and External Pressure
Musk’s aggressive cost-cutting agenda led to deep cuts across federal agencies, including the closure of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), drawing sharp criticism over the impact on foreign aid and international development.
Tensions also reportedly emerged within the cabinet over Trump’s expansive tax and spending plans, which Musk recently criticized, saying he was “disappointed” by policies that ran counter to DOGE’s fiscal objectives.
Meanwhile, his business empire has faced headwinds. Tesla has experienced declining sales and growing shareholder unrest, while SpaceX has grappled with several rocket test failures.
As Musk exits the political stage, controversy continues to follow him—raising questions not just about his time in government but about the broader implications of blending Silicon Valley influence with federal policymaking.
