Tesla CEO Elon Musk expressed his belief that his estranged transgender daughter was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care, declaring his intent to “destroy the woke mind virus.” This statement was made during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson.
Musk characterized gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” and revealed that his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, came out as transgender at the age of 16 after receiving care during the COVID-19 pandemic. He shared that he felt misled into signing documents related to her transition and that there was significant pressure due to fears of suicidal thoughts concerning his child.
He criticized the practice of providing medical procedures to minors, stating that such actions are “incredibly evil” and that there should be consequences for individuals who support them. Musk also claimed he was unaware that puberty blockers were effectively sterilization drugs.
Musk articulated a sense of loss regarding his relationship with his child, indicating that the term ‘deadnaming’ reflects the death of their previous identity. His remarks followed an announcement that X and SpaceX would relocate to Texas in response to California’s controversial SAFETY Act, which restricts parental notification regarding transgender identification in schools.
In 2022, Wilson filed for a name change and sought to dissociate from her father legally, stating she no longer wished to be connected to him. Musk has attributed the breakdown of their relationship to the influence of her progressive school.
Over recent years, Musk, who once held center-left views, has increasingly adopted conservative perspectives on various issues, including diversity and immigration. He recently endorsed the Republican party’s presidential candidates, highlighting a shift in his political alignment.