The Pentagon has initiated a review of Elon Musk's security clearance following allegations of marijuana use during a 2019 podcast appearance, according to a U.S. official. The investigation was triggered by an incident in September 2019 when Musk smoked cannabis on comedian Joe Rogan's live stream, sparking widespread online reaction.
Musk, who holds a security clearance through his role at SpaceX, has refiled his SF-86 security form acknowledging potential drug use violations. The U.S. Air Force previously denied reports of an active review, but a separate investigation was reportedly launched after the podcast incident, as confirmed by a source familiar with the matter.
SpaceX, which provides satellite launch services to the U.S. government, has not commented on the review. A Pentagon spokesperson stated, "For privacy and security reasons, we do not publicly discuss individual clearance status." The company's upcoming uncrewed test flight to the International Space Station was unaffected by the investigation, according to sources.
Musk's actions on the podcast also involved drinking whiskey and displaying a sword, leading to a temporary decline in Tesla's stock price. The billionaire's legal team has not yet addressed the security clearance review, while SpaceX remains silent on the matter.
