Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently made headlines by stating that his estranged transgender daughter is “killed” after undergoing gender-affirming care, prompting him to declare his intention to “destroy the woke mind virus.”
Musk shared his views during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, broadcast on Monday. He described gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” discussing the experience of his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, who came out as transgender at the age of 16 and received gender-affirming care during the pandemic.
Musk expressed regret, saying he was “tricked” into agreeing to documents regarding the care for one of his older children, referring to Wilson, who has since distanced herself from Musk’s family name. He noted that at the time, he was informed that Wilson might be at risk of suicide.
He criticized the procedures available to minors, stating that they are performed on children “who are far below the age of consent,” and echoed Peterson’s sentiment that promoting such practices is “incredibly evil,” suggesting that advocates should face imprisonment. Musk also claimed that at no point was he informed that puberty blockers, which he likened to sterilization drugs, were involved. It is important to clarify that puberty blockers do not directly alter fertility.
He remarked, “I was tricked into doing this. I lost my son, essentially,” adding that the term “deadnaming” reflects the profound loss he feels.
Musk’s remarks followed his announcement that both X and SpaceX would relocate to Texas, joining Tesla, in response to California’s AB1955, or the SAFETY Act. This legislation restricts schools from informing parents if a child identifies as transgender while also providing resources for LGBTQ+ youth. Musk has faced accusations of transphobia and promoting anti-trans rhetoric in the past.
In 2022, his daughter sought a name change and a new birth certificate, stating in court documents that she wishes to sever ties with her biological father entirely. Musk has indicated that her schooling in Los Angeles contributes to their strained relationship, as mentioned in Walter Isaacson’s biography about him. Isaacson also suggests that Musk’s contentious relationship with Wilson informs his “anti-woke sentiments.”
Over the years, Musk has shifted from his previously center-left political stance to increasingly adopt right-wing views on various issues, including diversity efforts and immigration. Recently, he endorsed the Republican candidates for president, former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom favor the fossil fuel industry and oppose clean energy initiatives.