Tesla CEO Elon Musk claimed that his estranged transgender daughter was “killed” after undergoing gender-affirming care, which led him to pledge to “destroy the woke mind virus.” During an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk, who heads several companies including X, referred to gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He mentioned that his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, received gender-affirming care during the pandemic and came out as transgender at the age of 16.
Musk stated that he felt “tricked” into signing documents for his child, who does not use his last name anymore. He described the period as confusing and influenced by the pandemic, indicating he was led to believe his child might attempt suicide. He further criticized the treatment of minors who are below the age of consent, agreeing with Peterson that it is “incredibly evil” and suggesting that those who promote such care should face imprisonment.
Musk expressed frustration over not being informed that puberty blockers could be seen as sterilization drugs, despite the fact that puberty blockers alone do not directly impact fertility. He remarked, “I was tricked into doing this. I lost my son, essentially,” emphasizing the emotional toll of what he describes as “deadnaming.”
His comments come shortly after he announced plans for X and SpaceX to relocate to Texas, citing California’s AB1955, known as the SAFETY Act. This legislation restricts schools from enforcing rules requiring parental notification if a child identifies as transgender and mandates state resources to support LGBTQ+ children. Musk has faced accusations of transphobia and promoting anti-trans sentiments.
In 2022, Musk’s daughter sought a name change and a new birth certificate, stating she no longer wishes to be related to him. Musk has attributed the estrangement to her progressive school environment, as noted in Walter Isaacson’s biography, suggesting that his fraught relationship with Wilson contributes to his “anti-woke” attitudes.
Over the past few years, Musk, previously known for his moderate political views, has increasingly adopted right-wing positions on various issues, including diversity, election integrity, and immigration. He recently endorsed the Republican presidential ticket of former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom favor the oil industry and oppose clean energy initiatives.