Tesla CEO Elon Musk controversially claimed that his estranged transgender daughter was “killed” following her gender-affirming care, leading him to express a determination to combat what he calls the “woke mind virus” during an interview with psychologist Jordan Peterson.
Musk, who oversees multiple companies including X, described gender reassignment procedures as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He shared that his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, transitioned during the pandemic at the age of 16. Musk recalled feeling pressured into supporting her decision and mentioned concerns for her mental health, stating that he was misled in the process.
“I was essentially tricked into signing documents for one of my older boys,” Musk said, referring to Wilson, who has distanced herself from him by not using his last name. Musk expressed his belief that gender-affirming procedures are performed on children who do not have the capacity to consent, aligning himself with Peterson’s view that it is morally wrong and should carry legal consequences.
Musk, a father of 12, argued that he was never fully informed about the potential implications of puberty blockers, which are prescribed to help manage puberty for transgender minors. He implied that these medications amount to sterilization, although it is noted that puberty blockers do not inherently affect fertility.
He expressed profound loss regarding his relationship with his child, equating the term “deadnaming” to the death of his son in a metaphorical sense. This public outcry comes shortly after Musk announced plans for X and SpaceX to relocate to Texas following California’s enactment of AB1955, a law prioritizing support and resources for transgender youth.
Musk’s daughter had previously petitioned for a name change and a new birth certificate, articulating her desire to sever ties with her biological father. Musk has attributed this estrangement to the progressive education system in Los Angeles.
In recent years, Musk has shifted from centrist political views to increasingly embrace right-wing rhetoric, addressing a range of issues such as diversity policies and election integrity. Earlier this month, he endorsed former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom oppose clean energy initiatives.