Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently made controversial comments regarding his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, stating that she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. This declaration came during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson. Musk referred to gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” emphasizing that he was unaware of his daughter’s transition when she received care during the pandemic at the age of 16.
Musk expressed that he felt deceived into signing documents concerning Wilson’s care, stating that he was told she might attempt suicide. He criticized the practice of gender-affirming care for minors, aligning with Peterson’s perspective that it is “incredibly evil” and suggesting that those who promote it should face imprisonment. Musk further claimed he was not informed that puberty blockers function as sterilization drugs, although it is noted that such blockers do not directly affect fertility.
Additionally, Musk mentioned feeling that he had “lost” his son due to the transition, highlighting the concept of “deadnaming” in this context. His remarks come shortly after he announced that X and SpaceX would join Tesla in relocating to Texas, partly in response to California legislation banning schools from requiring parental notification if a child identifies as transgender.
Musk’s relationship with Wilson has deteriorated, leading her in 2022 to apply for a name change and a new birth certificate, stating she no longer wishes to be associated with her biological father. Musk has previously attributed the rift to Wilson’s progressive schooling.
In recent years, Musk has shifted his political stance, increasingly adopting right-wing viewpoints on various issues, including diversity initiatives and immigration. He endorsed former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance for the upcoming Republican presidential ticket.