Issues, Etc.

Elon Musk and Detaching Children from Marriage and Sex – Joy Pullmann, 1/23/26 (0232)

Jan 23, 2026
Joy Pullman, executive editor at The Federalist and author on education and culture, offers a sharp take on family and child welfare in high‑profile custody matters. She walks through Musk’s complex parenting situation, debates risks of unmarried parenthood, and argues that detaching sex from marriage harms children's stability. She calls for a return to traditional moral priorities around marriage and parenting.
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INSIGHT

Wealth Doesn't Simplify Family Chaos

  • Elon Musk's family structure is complex, with multiple mothers and 14 known children.
  • Joy Pullman frames this as chaotic and emotionally burdensome despite his wealth.
ANECDOTE

Custody Fight Over Child Born Out of Marriage

  • Musk faces a custody fight with Ashley St. Clair over a one-year-old son born outside marriage.
  • St. Clair publicly changed views on transgender issues and Musk sought sole custody citing child safety concerns.
INSIGHT

Marriage As Primary Child Protector

  • Being born to unmarried parents or experiencing divorce is the top risk factor for many negative child outcomes.
  • Pullman argues marriage is the primary protector of children's well-being and stability.
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