In a recent report, Wall Street Journal, it has been alleged that Elon Musk, the prominent figure behind SpaceX, engaged in a sexual relationship with a former intern who was subsequently recruited to join his executive team. Furthermore, it is claimed that Musk was involved in a separate sexual relationship with another employee.
Another woman came forward, asserting that Musk persistently urged her to bear his children on multiple occasions, to which she declined. Troublingly, she further asserts that Musk retaliated by denying her a raise and expressing dissatisfaction with her performance. These allegations, if substantiated, raise important questions about professional conduct and the ethical implications surrounding the behavior of individuals in positions of power.
One of the women who Musk had a sexual relationship also drew the ire of SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell, who accused her of having an affair with Shotwell’s husband. When the woman reported this to HR, HR told Shotwell. “Shotwell told the HR department at SpaceX that she wanted the woman removed from the office of the chief executive,” The Wall Street Journal wrote.
According to Wall Street Journal, their recent article detailing allegations against Elon Musk is founded upon a substantial body of evidence. This includes access to text messages, emails, and other documents related to the incidents in question.
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The article is further supported by interviews with over 48 individuals, including close associates and family members of the women involved, as well as former employees of the SpaceX organization. The use of such extensive documentation and first-hand accounts lends credibility to the claims being made, elevating the significance of this report on the wider conversation of professional conduct and ethics.
Musk didn’t reply to WSJ’s requests for comment. Shotwell said the WSJ’s request for comment “paint[s] a completely misleading narrative” of what working for SpaceX is like, and that the WSJ story doesn’t reflect SpaceX’s culture. She also said that SpaceX investigates all harassment complaints and responds appropriately.
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In 2021, five former SpaceX employees said there was a “culture of sexual harassment” in the company. One of those women described multiple instances of being groped. A 2022 story reported that a flight attendant on Musk’s private jet said he exposed himself and offered “to buy her a horse in exchange for an erotic massage,” according to Business Insider. Earlier this year, a former SpaceX employee filed a lawsuit alleging sexual abuse and discrimination.
SpaceX is also being investigated by California’s civil rights agency over allegations that the company discriminates against women and retaliated against workers who raised concerns.
