Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently expressed strong opinions regarding gender-affirming care during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson. In the discussion, Musk claimed that his transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, was “killed” due to the care she received, asserting his intention to combat what he terms the “woke mind virus.”
Musk criticized gender-reassignment surgery, referring to it as “child mutilation and sterilization.” Wilson, who transitioned at the age of 16, has since distanced herself from her father by no longer using his last name. Musk recounted feeling misled into signing documents related to his daughter’s care, stating that this took place during the pandemic, a time filled with confusion. He mentioned a concern that Wilson might take her own life.
Addressing the issue further, Musk remarked on the practice of administering such procedures to minors, labeling it “incredibly evil” and contending that promoters of such practices should face imprisonment. He also stated that he was not informed that puberty blockers could equate to sterilization drugs, although it is important to note that puberty blockers typically do not adversely affect fertility when used alone.
Musk articulated feelings of loss regarding his son, referring to the term “deadnaming” to signify the profound emotional impact of his daughter’s transition. His comments come in the wake of a decision to relocate his companies, including X and SpaceX, to Texas, citing California’s AB1955 law, which restricts schools from mandating parental notification if a child identifies as transgender. This legislation also provides resources for LGBTQ+ youth.
Wilson applied for a name change and expressed a desire to sever ties with her biological father in 2022. Musk has attributed the rift in their relationship to her progressive school in Los Angeles, as detailed in Walter Isaacson’s biography, which suggests that the estrangement has influenced Musk’s “anti-woke sentiments.”
Over the past few years, Musk has shifted from his previously center-left views toward more right-wing rhetoric on various issues, including diversity and immigration. Recently, he endorsed the Republican presidential ticket of Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance, both known for their support of the oil industry and opposition to clean energy initiatives.