Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently expressed his views during an interview with psychologist Jordan Peterson, claiming that his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, was effectively “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. Musk referred to gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” and criticized the care his daughter underwent, which she began receiving during the pandemic.
Musk revealed that he felt misled into signing documents regarding Wilson’s transition, explaining that he acted without understanding the full implications of the situation, exacerbated by the confusion surrounding COVID-19. He stated he was told his child might be at risk of suicide, prompting his actions.
He lamented that children undergoing such medical processes are often below the age of consent, aligning with Peterson’s views that such practices are harmful. Musk claimed he was unaware that puberty blockers, which he argued essentially act as sterilization drugs, would have long-term effects. He articulated his sorrow over the situation, stating, “I lost my son, essentially,” and highlighted the concept of “deadnaming,” arguing it signifies the loss of his son’s identity.
Musk’s comments came shortly after he announced that his companies, including X and SpaceX, would relocate to Texas, citing opposition to California’s AB1955, which prohibits schools from notifying parents if a child identifies as transgender. Musk has faced accusations of transphobia and anti-trans rhetoric in the past.
Vivian Jenna Wilson, who has distanced herself from Musk, applied for a name change in 2022, stating she no longer wishes to be associated with her biological father. Musk has attributed the rift in their relationship to the influence of her progressive school in Los Angeles, a point made in Walter Isaacson’s biography of Musk, which suggests this estrangement fuels his anti-woke sentiments.
In recent years, Musk has shifted from his previously moderate political stance to adopt more right-wing views, engaging in discussions around topics like diversity, election integrity, and immigration policy. Earlier this month, he publicly endorsed the Republican presidential candidacy of Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance, both advocates of the fossil fuel industry and critics of renewable energy initiatives.