Drug Test Double Standard? Musk Endorses Federal Worker Testing Amid Spending Cuts

Elon Musk thinks more drug testing in government is a "great idea." That wouldn’t be shocking — except that it’s coming from a guy who once smoked weed on Joe Rogan’s podcast while running a federal contractor.

As chair of the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Musk is leading the charge to slash federal spending and staff. Over the weekend, he gave a blunt endorsement to the idea of mandatory, immediate drug tests across the federal workforce.

“Great idea,” Musk replied in an X post when former National Security Council official Joshua Steinman floated the proposal and tagged DOGE.

Testing Everyone—But What About Himself?

Musk’s stance is raising eyebrows, especially considering his own past admissions of drug use. He’s disclosed taking ketamine (reportedly for depression), promoted psychedelics, and famously tried cannabis on Rogan’s show — though he later claimed he didn’t inhale.

Despite all this, the DOGE chief seems eager to root out potential “for cause” terminations using workplace drug tests. It’s a bold move, given that SpaceX, Musk’s aerospace company, holds federal contracts and is required to follow drug testing protocols for safety-sensitive positions.

For more context on that controversy, check out: Is Elon Musk Being Tipped Off About SpaceX Drug Tests?

What the Law Says Now

Federal employees are currently subject to drug testing primarily in security-sensitive or safety-critical roles. Pre-employment tests are standard for many, but random testing is less common unless the job requires it.

However, as Musk’s DOGE agency pushes to reduce spending and shrink government size, it appears drug testing could become a tool for identifying employees to cut — a move that some critics say opens the door to selective enforcement.

It’s worth noting that not everyone in the federal sphere agrees. Former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, now serving as Director of National Intelligence under Trump, recently said past marijuana use should not disqualify someone from getting security clearance — though “ongoing” use remains more complicated.

Meanwhile, if the DEA follows through on plans to reschedule cannabis to Schedule III, as many advocates expect, it could fundamentally shift how drug testing policies are applied in the federal workforce.

Hypocrisy or Efficiency?

Musk’s public support for psychedelics, cannabis reform, and mental health treatments involving controlled substances isn’t new. What’s new is his role in crafting policies that may penalize others for behaviors he himself has defended or indulged in.

For more on Rep. Mikie Sherrill’s bill that would require Musk himself to undergo random drug tests, check out: Lawmaker Proposes Drug Test Requirement for Elon Musk.

Original source: Marijuana Moment – February 5, 2025

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Drug Test Digest and MyDetoxShop.com do not endorse any political opinions or misuse of substances. Always follow legal guidelines and workplace policies.