Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently expressed his controversial views regarding gender-affirming care during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson. Musk claimed that his estranged transgender daughter was “killed” following her medical transition, which he characterized as a form of “child mutilation and sterilization.” His remarks come in light of his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, coming out as transgender at 16 and receiving gender-affirming care during the pandemic.
Musk recounted feeling misled when he signed documents related to his daughter’s transition, stating he was concerned for her well-being amid fears she might attempt suicide. He criticized the practices affecting minors who are below the age of consent and expressed alignment with Peterson’s view that promoting such treatments is “incredibly evil,” suggesting those responsible should face imprisonment. He also claimed that he was not adequately informed that puberty blockers are essentially sterilization drugs, despite being told otherwise.
These statements follow Musk’s announcement that his companies, including X and SpaceX, would relocate to Texas due to California’s AB1955, known as the SAFETY Act. This legislation restricts schools from informing parents if their child identifies as transgender and mandates state support for LGBTQ+ youth. Musk has faced ongoing accusations of promoting anti-trans sentiments, and his daughter has taken legal steps to change her name and sever ties with him.
In the context of his shifting political stance, Musk, once considered center-left, has recently adopted more right-wing viewpoints, including opposition to diversity initiatives and promotion of conservative candidates. He recently endorsed the Republican ticket for the upcoming presidential election, reflecting his evolving political ideology.