Tesla CEO Elon Musk expressed strong criticism regarding gender-affirming care for transgender individuals during a recent interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson. Musk referred to the care as a form of “child mutilation and sterilization,” commenting on his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, who publicly came out as trans at the age of 16 and received care during the pandemic.
Musk disclosed his feelings of being misled into allowing Wilson to transition and lamented what he described as losing his son, stating that the concept of “deadnaming” reflects the loss he feels. He emphasized his belief that certain medical interventions for minors should be illegal, labeling them as “incredibly evil” and stating that advocates for such procedures should be imprisoned.
His comments come amid his ongoing criticism of California legislation regarding the rights of transgender students, which he claims has contributed to his decision to relocate his companies, including Tesla and SpaceX, to Texas. Musk’s public remarks come after a history of accusations of transphobia stemming from his outspoken views on various social issues.
In 2022, Musk’s daughter sought a name change and a new birth certificate, indicating her desire to distance herself from her father entirely. Musk has attributed their strained relationship to his daughter’s progressive education, suggesting it has influenced her views and their relationship dynamics.