Joe Rogan's podcast blunder costs spaceX millions: Taxpayer money wasted in marijuana debacle
Musk's 2018 joint smoking on Joe Rogan's podcast cost SpaceX. NASA paid SpaceX $5 million for "workplace culture" evaluation. SpaceX bans marijuana, but the podcast took place in California. NASA and federal law required the probe despite SpaceX's drug-free policy. Boeing, SpaceX's NASA capsule competitor, completed a similar study without funding. NASA hypocrite. Bridenstine worried. Boeing, SpaceX, and NASA collaborated. Government, cooperation, and disasters affect finances in the episode.
Elon Musk's Infamous Joint Sparks NASA's Investigation
When Elon Musk lit up a joint during his appearance on Joe Rogan's podcast in 2018, little did he know that it would have significant consequences for SpaceX. Politico reports that NASA, as part of its partnership with SpaceX, paid $5 million for a "workplace culture" review. The aim was to ensure that SpaceX employees followed federal guidelines against illegal drug use, even though marijuana is legal in California where the podcast was recorded. Despite SpaceX claiming to have robust drug-free programs in place, the review was initiated to address concerns raised by NASA.
Marijuana, Musk, and Money: NASA's Double Standards
While NASA's concern over drug use in its contractors' workplaces is understandable, the discrepancy in treatment between SpaceX and Boeing has raised eyebrows. Despite both companies being subject to reviews following Musk's joint incident, only SpaceX received funds from NASA for the investigation. Boeing, SpaceX's competitor in building capsules for NASA, underwent a similar review without financial assistance from the agency. This inconsistency has led to questions about potential double standards and favoritism within NASA's approach.
"Our comprehensive drug-free workforce and workplace programs exceed all applicable contractual requirements." - SpaceX statement
Updated: October 20, 2023 05:24 PM IST
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