Elon Musk and Ashley St. Clair. Photo: Getty Images; Ashley St. Clair/ X
Elon Musk is denying accusations that he has financially punished Ashley St. Clair and their child. The controversy started when St. Clair, a 26-year-old influencer, posted a video of herself selling her Tesla to cover childcare costs. Musk responded on social media, denying her claim that he "financially retaliated" against their son. He said, “I don’t know if the child is mine or not, but I’m not against finding out. No court order is needed.” He added that, despite not knowing for sure, he had already given her $2.5 million and was sending her $500,000 per year.
St. Clair then replied, stating that Musk had refused to confirm the paternity of their son and had recently reduced his financial support. She said that Musk withdrew most of his support to "maintain control" and punish her for "disobedience," which she claimed only harmed their son. She also pointed out the irony that Musk was using his social media platform, which he owns, to share negative messages about her and their child. She accused him of being manipulative and said, “It’s all about control with you, and everyone can see it.”
A representative for Musk did not respond immediately to St. Clair’s claims.
This exchange followed an incident where St. Clair had sold her Tesla Model S on March 29. She told reporters that she was selling the car because Musk allegedly cut child support by 60%. In a separate interview, she described Musk’s actions as vindictive, especially when women speak out. She also remarked that others had to "clean up after his messes" as well.
Earlier this year, St. Clair had filed for sole custody of their son with the New York Supreme Court. Her legal team argued that Musk had reduced his financial support after St. Clair took the matter to court. According to her legal team, Musk retaliated by cutting support and filing an application to gag St. Clair, preventing her from discussing the situation publicly. The judge denied Musk’s emergency application, and St. Clair’s legal team stated that she would continue to fight for her right to speak out.
St. Clair, who revealed the identity of her son’s father in February, has raised concerns over Musk’s treatment of her and his refusal to handle personal matters privately. Musk, known for his role as the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has 13 children with other women. His response to the situation has sparked further debate over his behavior and handling of family matters.
