Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently claimed that his estranged transgender daughter was “killed” after she received gender-affirming care, prompting him to express his intention to “destroy the woke mind virus.” During an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk labeled gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He noted that his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, began her gender transition during the pandemic at the age of 16.
Musk stated that he felt misled into signing documents regarding his child, who no longer uses his surname. He mentioned that at the time, he wasn’t fully aware of the situation, compounded by the confusion caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and was told his child might be at risk of suicide.
He criticized the practice of providing gender-affirming care to minors, suggesting it is “incredibly evil” and calling for harsh penalties for those who advocate for it. Musk claimed he was not informed that puberty blockers function similarly to sterilization drugs, even though these treatments do not independently impact fertility.
Expressing regret, Musk remarked, “I lost my son, essentially,” referring to the term “deadnaming” used in transgender discussions, indicating the death of his son’s former identity.
Musk’s remarks come shortly after he announced that X and SpaceX would relocate to Texas in response to California’s AB1955, the SAFETY Act. This legislation prohibits schools from requiring parental notification if a child identifies as transgender and mandates state resources to support LGBTQ+ youth. Musk has faced accusations of transphobia and promoting anti-trans agendas in the past.
In 2022, his daughter sought a name change and new birth certificate, indicating in court documents that she wishes to sever ties with her biological father completely. Musk has attributed the rift in their relationship to her progressive school, as noted in Walter Isaacson’s biography of the entrepreneur. The book suggests that Musk’s sentiments against “woke” culture are rooted in his estranged relationship with Wilson.
Once known for his center-left political views, Musk has shifted toward right-wing ideologies on various issues, including diversity and election fraud. Recently, he endorsed the Republican ticket featuring former President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom support the fossil fuel industry and oppose clean energy initiatives.