Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently made controversial remarks regarding his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, claiming she was “killed” after undergoing gender-affirming care. During an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk expressed his intention to combat what he termed the “woke mind virus.” He described gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” asserting that Wilson received gender-affirming treatment during the pandemic at the age of 16.
Musk stated that he was “tricked” into approving documents for Wilson, who has chosen to distance herself from her father’s surname. He expressed regret over the situation, explaining that he was overwhelmed by confusion during COVID-19 and was concerned for his child’s mental health. He criticized the practice of gender reassignment for minors, labeling it as “incredibly evil,” and suggested that advocates of such practices should face imprisonment.
He also claimed that he was not adequately informed about the implications of puberty blockers, which he incorrectly asserted were sterilization drugs. He lamented the loss of his son, stating that the term “deadnaming” reflects the deep emotional impact of the situation on him.
Musk’s comments follow his announcement that companies X and SpaceX would relocate to Texas due to California’s AB1955 legislation, which restricts school policies regarding parental notification for transgender-identifying students. Musk has faced accusations of promoting anti-trans sentiments previously.
In 2022, Wilson sought a name change and a new birth certificate, indicating her desire to sever ties with Musk completely. According to biographer Walter Isaacson, Musk attributes their strained relationship to Wilson’s progressive schooling in Los Angeles, suggesting that this has influenced his “anti-woke” views.
In recent years, Musk has shifted from more centrist views to adopt right-wing perspectives, including endorsements of former President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom advocate for the oil industry and oppose clean energy initiatives.