Tesla CEO Elon Musk has sparked controversy by claiming that his estranged transgender daughter was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care, leading him to state his intention to “destroy the woke mind virus.”
Musk shared these comments during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson. He criticized gender-reassignment surgery, referring to it as “child mutilation and sterilization.” His daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, who came out as transgender at 16, received gender-affirming care during the pandemic.
Musk revealed that he felt misled about the situation, stating that he was pressured into signing documents regarding Wilson’s care, particularly under the stress of the pandemic when he was told his child might be at risk of suicide. He expressed his belief that such procedures are performed on minors who cannot legally consent, aligning himself with Peterson’s assertion that promoting these practices is “incredibly evil” and deserving of punishment.
In his remarks, Musk claimed he was unaware that puberty blockers, which do not inherently affect fertility, are often equated with sterilization. He expressed feelings of loss regarding his son, emphasizing the term “deadnaming” as indicative of his son’s death in his eyes.
These comments arrived shortly after Musk announced plans for X and SpaceX to relocate to Texas, responding to California’s SAFETY Act, which restricts schools from notifying parents if their child identifies as transgender and mandates state support for LGBTQ+ resources. Musk has faced past accusations of transphobia and promoting anti-trans narratives.
In 2022, Musk’s daughter legally changed her name and indicated in court that she wished to sever ties with her biological father. According to biographer Walter Isaacson, Musk attributes the strained relationship with Wilson to her progressive school in Los Angeles, linking it to his rising anti-woke sentiments.
Musk, who previously held center-left views, has recently adopted more right-wing perspectives on various issues, including diversity and immigration. Earlier this month, he endorsed the Republican presidential ticket of former President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance.