Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently expressed strong opinions regarding gender-affirming care for transgender youth, claiming that his estranged daughter was “killed” by such treatment. This statement aligns with his commitment to “destroy the woke mind virus.”
During an interview with psychologist Jordan Peterson, Musk labeled gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He discussed his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, who came out as transgender at age 16 and underwent gender-affirming care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Musk reflected on his past actions, stating, “I was essentially tricked into signing documents for one of my older boys,” referring to Wilson, who has since distanced herself by dropping his surname. He claimed he was misled about the implications of the decisions made during a time of heightened confusion due to the pandemic.
Additionally, Musk voiced concerns about children undergoing such processes before they reach the age of consent, echoing Peterson’s views that this practice is “incredibly evil,” and suggested that advocates for it should face imprisonment. He also argued that he was not adequately informed about puberty blockers, which he mistakenly characterized as sterilization drugs.
Musk lamented the loss of his relationship with his daughter, stating, “I lost my son, essentially,” and commenting on the term “deadnaming,” which he believes signifies that his son is no longer alive.
These remarks come shortly after Musk announced that his companies, X and SpaceX, would move to Texas in response to California’s AB1955 legislation, which restricts parental notification when a child identifies as transgender. Musk has faced allegations of promoting anti-trans sentiments over time.
In 2022, Wilson sought a name change and a new birth certificate to dissociate from Musk completely. According to biographer Walter Isaacson, Musk attributes his rocky relationship with Wilson to the influence of her progressive school in Los Angeles, suggesting it fuels his “anti-woke sentiments.”
Musk, who previously held moderate political views, has shifted towards more right-wing stances, criticizing topics such as diversity initiatives and immigration. Recently, he endorsed the Republican presidential ticket featuring former President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom support the oil industry and oppose clean energy initiatives.