Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently commented that his estranged daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, was “killed” after she received gender-affirming care, prompting him to declare his intention to “destroy the woke mind virus.”
Musk shared these views during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson. He characterized gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” discussing how Wilson came out as transgender at the age of 16 after receiving gender-affirming care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Musk expressed regret over signing documents regarding his child’s transition, stating he was not fully aware of the situation at the time and was influenced by concerns for Wilson’s mental health. He claimed he was led to believe that without intervention, she might commit suicide.
He criticized the procedures for children who are below the age of consent, echoing Peterson’s sentiments that such actions are “incredibly evil.” Musk also stated that he was not made aware that puberty blockers could be considered sterilization drugs, although these do not directly affect fertility.
Musk expressed a sense of loss over his relationship with his daughter, suggesting that the term “deadnaming” reflects the emotional impact of losing his son.
These comments follow Musk’s announcement that X and SpaceX would be relocating to Texas in response to California’s AB1955, which restricts school rules regarding the notification of parents about children’s transgender identities. Musk has faced allegations of transphobia and promoting anti-trans messaging in the past.
In 2022, Wilson applied for a name change and new birth certificate, expressing her desire to sever ties with her biological father. Musk, as noted in Walter Isaacson’s biography, has attributed the rift in their relationship to the progressive schooling his daughter attended.
Musk, who has shifted from center-left to more right-wing views in recent years, recently endorsed the Republican Party’s presidential slate, which includes former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both known for their support of the oil industry and opposition to clean energy initiatives.