Elon Musk’s children have become a frequent presence at his high-profile meetings and public events, often appearing alongside him in key moments spanning technology, business, and now, politics. Whether at SpaceX launch control rooms, meetings with global leaders, or even inside the Oval Office, Musk’s children—especially his four-year-old son, known as “Lil X”—have become a noticeable fixture in his public life.
Musk's decision to bring his children to high-profile events has been evident long before his political involvement. Recently, Lil X was seen sitting near the Resolute Desk in the White House, dressed in a tan coat and collared shirt, while his father met with U.S. leaders. The next day, Musk’s children were photographed exchanging gifts with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi while Musk discussed innovation and technology with the foreign leader.
Before this, his children had been present at various international events, including a meeting with the president of Turkey, a memorial at Auschwitz, and Musk’s 2021 recognition as Time magazine’s Person of the Year. Their frequent appearances have raised questions about whether their presence is simply a personal choice or a strategic move.
Public relations experts believe Musk’s inclusion of his children serves a purpose beyond fatherhood. According to Kurt Braddock, a professor of public communication, incorporating family into public appearances can help soften a leader’s image and make them more relatable.
"Including children in public events is often a strategic move. It humanizes an individual who might otherwise be seen as distant or purely business-focused," Braddock explained.
Some analysts also suggest that the presence of Musk’s children serves as a distraction, shifting media focus away from more controversial discussions. Strategic communication consultant Jon Haber believes that Musk’s appearances with his children may create viral moments that benefit political figures like Donald Trump, with whom Musk has aligned on several occasions.
"Trump thrives on chaos. The more distractions there are, the harder it is for people to focus on any single issue. The presence of Musk’s children contributes to that strategy," Haber noted.
Not everyone agrees with Musk’s decision to involve his young children in the public eye. Grimes, the musician and mother of Lil X, voiced her disapproval after her son appeared in the Oval Office.
"He should not be in public like this," she wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "I did not see this… but I'm glad he was polite. Sigh."
In a 2022 interview with Vanity Fair, Grimes expressed concerns about her son being in the spotlight, suggesting that Musk views him as a protégé rather than a private individual.
"I think E [Elon] sees him as an extension of himself, bringing him to everything," she said. "But I feel kids should be left out of public life as much as possible."
Musk’s tendency to have his children around is not a new development. A decade ago, during Tesla’s rise, his five older children were often spotted at events, sometimes playing in the background while Musk prepared for major unveilings. At a Tesla event in 2015, his children ran through hallways, laughing and playing while investors and reporters waited for Musk’s keynote address.
This casual approach marked a shift from the more rigid, formal atmospheres typically associated with corporate events. Unlike many executives who maintain strict boundaries between work and family, Musk has consistently embraced the presence of his children in professional settings.
Musk, who has fathered 12 children with three different women, has been open about his deep connection with them. His biographer, Walter Isaacson, described Musk as being "almost obsessed" with his children.
"With everything in his life—his work, his relationships, and his children—there is an intensity baked into how he operates," Isaacson said during The Diary of a CEO podcast. "He always wants some of his children around. He craves companionship but not necessarily calmness."
Musk himself has referred to Lil X as his “emotional support human”, further emphasizing the bond he shares with his youngest son.
By consistently bringing his children to high-profile events, Musk is redefining how billionaire executives engage with the public. Whether intentional or not, their presence humanizes him, reinforces his role as a father, and sparks public conversation—both positive and critical.
As Musk’s influence continues to grow in politics and business, it remains to be seen whether his children will continue to be part of his public persona or if concerns about privacy will eventually take precedence. For now, their presence remains an unmistakable part of Musk’s evolving narrative.
