Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently stated that he believes his estranged transgender daughter was “killed” after she underwent gender-affirming care, prompting him to express a strong desire to “destroy the woke mind virus.”
Musk made these controversial comments during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, which aired on Monday. He described gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.” His daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, publicly came out as transgender at the age of 16 and received gender-affirming care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I was essentially tricked into signing documents for one of my older boys,” Musk said, referring to Wilson, who has chosen to no longer use his surname. He explained that this took place during a chaotic time, and he was worried about her mental health, as he was told she might be at risk of suicide.
Musk criticized the practice of administering gender-affirming procedures to minors who are not of age to consent, calling it “incredibly evil” and suggesting that those who promote it should face imprisonment. While discussing puberty blockers, he claimed that it was not adequately communicated to him that these medications are “actually just sterilization drugs,” although it is noted that puberty blockers alone do not impact fertility.
Expressing deep regret, Musk said, “I was tricked into doing this. I lost my son, essentially,” referring to the concept of “deadnaming” where he suggests it signifies the loss of his son.
These remarks come shortly after Musk announced that his companies, including SpaceX and X, would be relocating to Texas, citing dissatisfaction with California’s AB1955 legislation, which restricts schools from requiring parental notification if a child identifies as transgender. This law also mandates the provision of resources to support LGBTQ+ youth.
Musk’s daughter sought a name change and a new birth certificate in 2022, stating in court documents that she wishes to sever all ties to her biological father. According to Walter Isaacson’s biography of Musk, the strained relationship with Wilson is a significant factor behind his outspoken anti-woke sentiments.
In recent times, Musk has shifted from a center-left political stance toward more right-wing views on various issues, including diversity initiatives, election integrity, and immigration. Just this month, he expressed his support for the Republican presidential candidates Donald Trump and J.D. Vance, both of whom advocate for the fossil fuel industry and oppose clean energy initiatives.