Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently made controversial comments regarding his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, suggesting she was “killed” due to gender-affirming care. He declared a mission to “destroy the woke mind virus” during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson.
Musk referred to gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” attributing Wilson’s transition, which occurred when she was 16, to a lack of understanding on his part, exacerbated by the confusion of the pandemic. He revealed that he felt misled into signing documents concerning gender-affirming care for Wilson, expressing concern that she might attempt suicide.
Musk criticized the practice of providing gender-affirming care to minors, agreeing with Peterson’s view that it is “incredibly evil.” He stated that he was unaware that puberty blockers essentially function as sterilization drugs, although it is noted that puberty blockers themselves do not directly affect fertility.
Reflecting on his family’s dynamic, Musk expressed regret, claiming he felt he lost his son and labeled the concept of “deadnaming” as a painful reminder of that loss. His comments come shortly after announcing that he would relocate Tesla and other ventures to Texas, citing legislative changes in California related to LGBTQ+ rights in schools.
Musk’s relationship with Wilson reportedly soured following her decision to distance herself from him, as documented in her name change petition, where she stated a desire to sever ties with her biological father. Additionally, Musk’s recent shift towards right-wing ideologies has become notable, marking a departure from his earlier centrist views, particularly regarding political issues such as diversity initiatives and immigration policies.