Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently made controversial statements about his estranged transgender daughter, claiming she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. This prompted him to express his intent to “destroy the woke mind virus.”
During an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk described gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He referenced his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, who received gender-affirming care during the pandemic and publicly came out as transgender at age 16.
Musk shared that he felt misled into signing documents regarding his child’s care, stating that it occurred when he had limited understanding of the situation amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. He mentioned concerns about suicidal tendencies that were presented to him at that time.
The Tesla CEO criticized the medical practices surrounding transgender care for minors, asserting that such decisions are made for children who are not of the age of consent. He echoed Peterson’s sentiments, calling the promotion of these practices “incredibly evil” and suggesting that proponents should face imprisonment. Musk, who has 12 children, claimed he was not fully informed that puberty blockers can function as sterilization drugs, although it is known that puberty blockers themselves do not impact fertility.
Musk expressed a feeling of loss regarding his son, saying, “I was tricked into doing this,” and described the concept of “deadnaming” as indicative of a death of identity.
These comments come shortly after Musk announced that X and SpaceX would relocate to Texas, citing California’s AB1955 SAFETY Act, which restricts school policies on notifying parents about their children’s transgender identity and mandates state resources for LGBTQ+ children. Musk has faced accusations of transphobia and anti-trans messaging in the past.
In 2022, Musk’s daughter applied for a name change and a new birth certificate, stating in court she no longer wishes to be associated with her biological father. Musk has attributed their strained relationship to her progressive schooling in Los Angeles, a dynamic he believes has fueled his “anti-woke” sentiments.
In recent years, Musk’s political views have shifted from center-left to embracing increasingly right-wing narratives across various issues, including diversity, election integrity, and immigration. Earlier this month, he endorsed the Republican presidential ticket of former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom support the oil industry and oppose clean energy initiatives.