Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently voiced strong criticism regarding gender-affirming care, claiming that it led to the “death” of his transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson. During an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk referred to gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” expressing his belief that children are subjected to these procedures without proper understanding or consent.
Musk recounted that his daughter began her transition during the pandemic at the age of 16, and he felt misled into consenting to care that he believes was harmful. He stated, “I was essentially tricked into signing documents for one of my older boys,” highlighting his confusion during a tumultuous time and mentioning concerns about his child’s mental health.
He characterized the treatment as “incredibly evil” and asserted that those who promote it should face imprisonment. Musk, a father of 12, contended that the use of puberty blockers should have been presented more transparently, claiming he was unaware they could act as sterilization drugs, despite puberty blockers not directly affecting fertility.
Musk’s remarks follow his decision to move Tesla and other companies to Texas, largely in response to California’s AB1955 legislation, which limits school requirements to notify parents if a child identifies as transgender. He has faced accusations of promoting anti-transgender views in the past.
Vivian’s application for a name change in 2022 indicated her desire to sever ties with her father, stating she does not want to “be related to my biological father in any way, shape or form.” In a biography by Walter Isaacson, Musk suggested that her upbringing in a progressive school in Los Angeles contributed to their estrangement, which Musk links to his growing “anti-woke” sentiment.
Over the years, Musk has shifted from his previous center-left political stance to adopt increasingly right-wing views across various subjects, including diversity initiatives and energy policies. He recently backed Donald Trump and Republican Senator J.D. Vance for the upcoming presidential election.