Musk was eventually granted security clearance, but since 2021 he has failed to self-report details about his life, including travel activities, people he met and drug use, the Times said. The government is also concerned that SpaceX has failed to ensure Musk complies with reporting rules.
Government agencies “want to make sure that those with authorization are not violating the rules and regulations,” Andrew Bakaj, a former CIA official and attorney who works on security clearances, told the Times. “If you don't self-report, the question becomes, 'Why didn't you do that? And what are you trying to hide?'”
According to the report, Musk's handling of classified information has raised questions during diplomatic meetings between the United States and some of its allies, including Israel.
Musk's national security profile has risen following his deep and full-throated support for Donald Trump, who won the US presidential campaign in November and will be sworn in next month. After this inauguration, Trump will have the power to grant security clearance to whomever he wishes.
