Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently made controversial remarks regarding his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, claiming she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. During an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk expressed his intention to “destroy the woke mind virus” and described gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.”
Musk revealed that Wilson, who came out as transgender at the age of 16, received gender-affirming care during the COVID-19 pandemic. He stated he was “tricked” into signing documents concerning her care, which he claims was influenced by concerns about her mental health. He shared that he felt misled and highlighted his belief that the medical procedures are performed on children “far below the age of consent.” Musk echoed Peterson’s sentiment that promoting such procedures is “incredibly evil,” suggesting that those who advocate for them should face imprisonment.
In addressing puberty blockers, Musk asserted that he was not made aware that they were effectively sterilization drugs, although it is important to note that puberty blockers do not directly affect fertility. Expressing his sense of loss, Musk lamented, “I lost my son, essentially,” referring to his daughter’s transition and the practice of “deadnaming.”
These comments come shortly after Musk announced that his companies, including X and SpaceX, will relocate to Texas in response to California’s AB1955, known as the SAFETY Act. This legislation prohibits schools from enforcing rules that require parental notification if a child identifies as transgender and mandates the State Department to offer resources for LGBTQ+ children. Musk has faced accusations of transphobia and anti-trans messaging in the past.
Wilson applied for a name change and a new birth certificate in 2022, stating in court documents her desire to disassociate from her biological father. Musk has attributed the estrangement to the influence of her progressive school in Los Angeles, and his relationship with Wilson has been cited as a factor behind his rising “anti-woke sentiments.”
In recent years, Musk has shifted from his previously center-left political stance, increasingly adopting right-wing viewpoints on topics ranging from diversity policies to election integrity and immigration. Earlier this month, he endorsed the Republican presidential ticket of Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both known for their support of the oil industry and opposition to clean energy initiatives.