Tesla CEO Elon Musk claimed that his estranged transgender daughter was “killed” after she received gender-affirming care, prompting him to vow to “destroy the woke mind virus.” Musk made these remarks during a conversation with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, which was aired on Monday.
In the interview, Musk characterized gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” stating that his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, sought gender-affirming care during the pandemic and came out as transgender at the age of 16. He expressed that he felt misled into signing documents related to her transition, reflecting on a time of confusion during the COVID-19 pandemic when he was reportedly told that his child might be suicidal.
Musk criticized the medical process concerning children, particularly those who are below the age of consent, and expressed agreement with Peterson on the notion that promoting such care is “incredibly evil” and deserving of imprisonment. He also claimed he was not properly informed that puberty blockers could be considered “sterilization drugs,” clarifying that these blockers do not alone affect fertility.
Musk expressed anguish over losing his son, stating that the act of “deadnaming” signifies a loss. His comments come at a time when he announced plans for X and SpaceX to relocate to Texas, citing concerns over California’s legislation that prohibits schools from requiring parental notification when a child identifies as transgender.
In 2022, Musk’s daughter applied for a name change and a new birth certificate, indicating that she no longer wishes to be associated with her biological father. Musk has attributed their strained relationship to her education at a progressive school in Los Angeles, as noted in Walter Isaacson’s biography.
Over recent years, Musk has shifted from his previously center-left political stance to embrace more right-wing viewpoints, particularly concerning issues such as election fraud, immigration, and diversity initiatives. This month, he threw his support behind the Republican presidential ticket, endorsing former president Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance.