Elon Musk has entered into a public feud with California Governor Gavin Newsom, ignited by the governor’s remarks about Musk’s transgender daughter, Vivian Wilson. In a viral clip, Newsom emphasized his “pro trans” stance while addressing the backlash from Musk’s America PAC, which supports conservative policies. In response, Newsom’s office issued a cutting remark directed at Musk, asserting, “Correct. We’re sorry your daughter hates you, Elon.”
This exchange comes amidst ongoing tensions between Musk and Wilson, who has criticized her father for his views. Vivian Wilson previously revealed in an NBC interview that Musk was largely absent during her childhood and was critical of her femininity. In his attempts to engage with the controversy, Musk has used her deadname, which has further fueled the discord.
Musk responded to Newsom by referring to his child Xavier, whom he claims suffers from a “tragic mental illness” caused by what he perceives as harmful ideologies propagated by Newsom. He declared his love for Xavier while asserting that his daughters—Azure, Exa (known as Y), and Arcadia—unconditionally love him.
In a separate but related action, Wilson took to Threads, making an apparent jab at what she termed “cowardly men,” hinting at a lack of direct engagement regarding criticisms made about her. She emphasized her dwindling patience for indirect attacks against her.
This discord highlights the stark contrast between Musk’s and Newsom’s ideologies, with Musk often espousing views that sharply oppose progressive stances on gender identity and inclusion. The public exchange reflects a growing cultural divide over transgender rights and the responsibilities of public figures in how they address these sensitive topics.
As this dialogue continues, it underscores the profound implications of personal relationships intertwined with public discourse in the context of trans rights and the responsibilities that come with being a parent and a public figure.