Tesla CEO Elon Musk has made controversial remarks regarding his transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, suggesting that she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. During a recent interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk expressed his intention to eradicate what he calls the “woke mind virus.”
Musk criticized gender-reassignment surgery, labeling it as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He recounted that Wilson, who transitioned at the age of 16, underwent gender-affirming care during the pandemic. He claimed he was misled into signing necessary documents for his child, stating that he acted under pressure due to concerns over potential suicide.
He argued that such medical procedures are administered to minors who cannot legally consent and agreed with Peterson’s assertion that promoting these practices is “incredibly evil.” Musk expressed disappointment that he was not informed that puberty blockers could lead to sterilization effects, although it is noted that puberty blockers alone do not directly affect fertility.
Musk stated, “I lost my son, essentially,” linking his feelings of loss to the term “deadnaming,” which refers to when someone uses the birth name of a transgender individual without their consent. This incident follows Musk’s announcement that his companies, including X and SpaceX, would relocate to Texas, citing his opposition to California legislation that affects the rights and support of LGBTQ+ youth.
Wilson, in 2022, sought a name change and a new birth certificate, indicating in court documents her desire to sever ties with Musk entirely. He has previously attributed their strained relationship to her progressive schooling. This personal dynamic has influenced Musk’s shift towards right-wing ideologies, as noted in recent analyses of his political stance.
Musk, who once held center-left views, has now embraced conservative positions on various subjects, including diversity efforts and immigration. Recently, he endorsed the Republican presidential ticket including former President Donald Trump.