Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently made controversial statements regarding his estranged transgender daughter during an interview with psychologist Jordan Peterson. Musk claimed that his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care, a process he termed “child mutilation and sterilization.” He discussed Wilson’s transition, which began during the pandemic when she was 16, stating that he felt misled into agreeing to her care.
Musk expressed regret about allegedly being “tricked” into signing documents regarding his daughter’s transition, mentioning concerns for her mental health at the time. He emphasized that he believes children who undergo such procedures are often below the age of consent and agreed with Peterson’s view that those who promote these practices should be imprisoned. He also mentioned that he was unaware that puberty blockers could lead to sterilization.
Musk’s comments come shortly after his announcement that X and SpaceX will relocate to Texas, citing California’s AB1955 legislation, which prohibits schools from mandating parental notification when students identify as transgender. Musk has faced accusations of promoting transphobic sentiments in the past.
In 2022, Wilson sought a name change and a new birth certificate, expressing a desire to sever ties with Musk. According to biographer Walter Isaacson, Musk attributes the strained relationship to the progressive environment of Wilson’s Los Angeles school, which he believes has influenced her views.
Over recent years, Musk has shifted from center-left politics to adopting right-wing positions on various issues, including diversity and election integrity. He recently endorsed the Republican presidential ticket led by former President Donald Trump.