Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently expressed strong sentiments regarding his estranged transgender daughter, claiming she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. He vowed to “destroy the woke mind virus” during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, aired on Monday. Musk referred to gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.” His daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, publicly came out as transgender at the age of 16 and received support during the pandemic.
Musk stated he felt misled into signing documents regarding his child’s care, mentioning that he was concerned for her safety. He criticized the procedures for being administered to children who have not reached the age of consent, agreeing with Peterson’s characterization of it as “incredibly evil.” Musk suggested that those who promote such care should face imprisonment. He also claimed he was never informed that puberty blockers function as sterilization drugs, although these medications alone do not impact fertility.
Musk remarked, “I was tricked into doing this. I lost my son, essentially,” stressing the emotional weight of the term “deadnaming.” His comments followed his announcement that X and SpaceX would relocate to Texas, citing California’s AB1955 legislation. This law restricts schools from notifying parents if their child identifies as transgender and mandates state support resources for LGBTQ+ children. Musk has faced criticism in the past for transphobic rhetoric.
In 2022, his daughter sought a name change and a new birth certificate, stating in legal documents that she no longer wishes any association with her biological father. Musk has attributed their strained relationship to the progressive educational environment in Los Angeles, as noted in Walter Isaacson’s biography, suggesting it has influenced his “anti-woke sentiments.”
Over recent years, Musk has shifted from his prior center-left political stance toward more right-wing viewpoints, addressing topics including diversity policies and election integrity. Earlier this month, he endorsed the Republican presidential ticket featuring former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both known for their support of the oil industry and opposition to clean energy initiatives.