Elon Musk’s children have had unique experiences that most people will never get to witness. From attending meetings with foreign leaders to observing SpaceX launches from the control room, Musk’s children have become familiar figures in their father’s activities in technology, business, and now, politics.
They have been frequently seen accompanying Musk in the nation’s capital ever since President Donald Trump selected the tech billionaire and Tesla co-founder to head the newly-established Department of Government Efficiency.
During a visit to the Oval Office, Musk’s four-year-old, nicknamed “Lil X,” sat by the Resolute desk in a tan pea coat and collared shirt. The following day, X and two of his siblings participated in a gift exchange with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi while their father engaged in discussions on technology and innovation with the foreign leader.
Musk has often been spotted with his children even prior to his ventures in Washington – attending meetings with the president of Turkey, a memorial service at Auschwitz concentration camp, and a Time magazine event where he was honored as the 2021 person of the year.
But what drives Musk to bring his children along?
Kurt Braddock, a professor of public communication at American University, believes that involving the kids in various public appearances is a strategic move to present Musk in a more relatable and human light to the public. However, Braddock found the decision to bring Musk’s young child to the Oval Office particularly unusual.
During a 30-minute press briefing, X appeared disinterested as he imitated his father, sat on the floor, and occasionally interacted with the President. At one point, he even gestured for someone in the room to be quiet.
Braddock suggests that their presence serves a purpose – acting as a distraction that benefits both Musk and Trump.
Jon Haber, a strategic communication consultant with experience in presidential campaigns, believes that Musk’s children making frequent appearances and creating viral moments work in favor of Trump by adding to the chaos and preventing focused attention on specific issues.
Grimes, Musk’s former partner and X’s mother, expressed her disapproval of her son’s public exposure during the Oval Office visit. In a social media post, she stated, “He should not be in public like this. I did not see this… but I’m glad he was polite. Sigh.”
In a Vanity Fair article from 2022, Grimes mentioned her discomfort with her son being in the spotlight, emphasizing the need for children to stay out of family matters. Despite this, Musk has continued to involve his children in his activities.
Years before his involvement in politics, Musk allowed his children to accompany him. Around a decade ago, as he was establishing his reputation and seeking to promote his electric-vehicle company Tesla, it was common to see them at events. For instance, at a Tesla facility in Silicon Valley in 2015, as analysts and reporters awaited an unveiling,
Elon Musk’s approach to parenting has created a refreshing and lighthearted atmosphere, in stark contrast to the formalities typically associated with corporate events. While other companies may find it unusual to have an executive’s young children present, Musk’s offspring bring a sense of ease and joy to the scene.
The tech billionaire has a total of 12 children from his relationships with three different women, a fact that adds an element of intrigue to his already extraordinary life. Among his brood is his well-known son, X Æ A-12, who affectionately goes by the nickname “Lil X”. Drawing inspiration from his father’s innovative spirit, X is already making his mark on social media, reminiscent of Musk’s own bold moves in the tech world, such as re-naming Twitter with the letter ‘X’.
Described by Musk himself as an “emotional support human”, young X is evidently a significant presence in his father’s life. Renowned biographer Walter Isaacson sheds light on Musk’s deep commitment to his children, portraying him as someone who is almost fixated on their well-being. Isaacson delves into Musk’s relationships with his offspring, lovers, and wives, emphasizing the intense passion that the entrepreneur brings to every aspect of his life.
Isaacson’s insights offer a glimpse into Musk’s inner world, revealing a man who thrives on the energy of those around him. Musk’s fondness for having his children close by and his preference for companionship over calmness paint a picture of a dynamic and engaged parent, eager to share his journey with those he holds dear.
In a world often defined by stark professionalism and rigid boundaries, Elon Musk’s embrace of fatherhood as a source of joy and inspiration is a breath of fresh air. As he navigates the complexities of parenthood alongside his groundbreaking work in technology and innovation, Musk’s unique approach to blending family life with his relentless drive for progress sets him apart as a figure who is as dedicated to his children as he is to his visionary pursuits.
