In a recent interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Tesla CEO Elon Musk made controversial remarks regarding his transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson. Musk claimed that his daughter was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care and expressed his intent to counter what he described as the “woke mind virus.”
Musk criticized gender-reassignment surgery, labeling it as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He revealed that his daughter came out as transgender at the age of 16 and received gender-affirming care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Musk mentioned feeling misled when he signed documents concerning his child’s care, suggesting that the decision was made amid confusion and concern about potential suicide threats.
Expressing strong opposition, Musk claimed that the procedures are being performed on children who are not old enough to give consent. He echoed Peterson’s sentiments, deeming the promotion of such practices as “incredibly evil” and suggesting that those who advocate for them should face imprisonment. Musk, who has twelve children, stated that he was not adequately informed that puberty blockers could lead to sterilization, even though they alone do not directly affect fertility.
Musk described his experience as feeling “tricked,” lamenting the loss of his son, whom he referred to as being “dead” due to the process known as “deadnaming.” His comments come shortly after announcing that his companies, including X and SpaceX, would relocate to Texas, a move influenced by California’s AB1955 legislation regarding transgender rights in schools.
In 2022, Wilson sought a name change and new birth certificate, declaring her desire to sever ties with her father. Musk has attributed the strained relationship to her progressive schooling in Los Angeles, which he believes has contributed to her anti-Musk sentiments. Over recent years, Musk has shifted from his previously centrist political views to adopt more right-wing positions, including support for the Republican presidential ticket of former President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance.