Tesla CEO Elon Musk claimed during a recent interview that his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. He expressed his determination to “destroy the woke mind virus.” Musk’s remarks were made in conversation with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, where he criticized gender-reassignment surgery, labeling it as “child mutilation and sterilization.”
Musk stated that he felt misled when he signed documents for Wilson, who transitioned at the age of 16 during the pandemic. He expressed regret for what he perceived as a lack of understanding at the time, mentioning concerns that his child might have suicidal tendencies.
The CEO emphasized that he believes such procedures are performed on minors too young to give consent, aligning with Peterson’s view that promoting these practices is “incredibly evil,” suggesting that those who advocate for them should face imprisonment. Musk, a father of 12, expressed that he was not informed that puberty blockers are effectively sterilization drugs, although it should be noted that puberty blockers themselves do not directly cause infertility.
He lamented the loss of his son, referring to the concept of “deadnaming” to illustrate his feelings regarding his daughter’s transition. Musk’s comments come shortly after he announced that X and SpaceX would relocate to Texas due to California’s AB1955, or the SAFETY Act, which prohibits parental notification if a child identifies as transgender and mandates resources for LGBTQ+ youth.
Musk’s daughter applied for a name change and stated in court documents her desire to sever ties with him completely. According to biographer Walter Isaacson, Musk attributes the estrangement to the progressive environment of Wilson’s school in Los Angeles, linking it to his views against what he perceives as “woke” ideologies.
Once aligned with center-left politics, Musk has shifted towards right-wing positions on various issues, endorsing the Republican party’s presidential candidates, including former president Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom support the oil industry and oppose clean energy initiatives.