Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently made controversial remarks regarding his estranged transgender daughter, stating she was “killed” following her receipt of gender-affirming care. In an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, which aired on Monday, Musk referred to gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.” His daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, publicly came out as transgender at the age of 16 and underwent gender-affirming treatment during the pandemic.
“I was essentially tricked into signing documents for one of my older boys,” Musk said, alluding to Wilson, who no longer uses his surname. He expressed confusion at the time due to the circumstances surrounding COVID-19 and fears of potential self-harm from his child. Musk argued that medical procedures should not be performed on minors who are below the age of consent and stated that he agrees with Peterson’s view that promoting such practices is “incredibly evil,” even suggesting imprisonment for proponents.
Musk, a father of 12, voiced his concerns over the lack of explanation he received regarding puberty blockers, which he asserted were presented to him as sterilization drugs. He lamented the loss of his son, referring to the concept of “deadnaming,” which he believes illustrates a profound personal loss.
These remarks come shortly after Musk announced that his companies, including X and SpaceX, would relocate to Texas due to California’s SAFETY Act, which limits school notifications regarding students identifying as transgender and mandates state support for LGBTQ+ youth. Musk has faced accusations of transphobia and promoting anti-trans narratives.
In 2022, Musk’s daughter sought a name change and expressed a desire to sever ties with her biological father completely. Musk has attributed their strained relationship to the influence of her progressive school in Los Angeles. According to biographer Walter Isaacson, this estrangement has influenced Musk’s recent anti-woke rhetoric.
Once known for his moderate politics, Musk has shifted towards right-wing ideologies, engaging in various contentious topics ranging from diversity initiatives to election integrity. This month, he endorsed the Republican presidential candidates Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom are known for their pro-oil industry stance and opposition to clean energy.