Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk recently shared controversial views during an interview with psychologist and commentator Jordan Peterson. He claimed that his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. Musk’s remarks echo his broader criticism of what he calls the “woke mind virus,” which he vows to combat.
During the interview, Musk referred to gender-affirming procedures as “child mutilation and sterilization,” expressing regret over his daughter’s transition, which she began at the age of 16 during the pandemic. He detailed feeling misled into allowing this care, mentioning that he feared for her mental health amid the confusion surrounding COVID-19.
Musk further stated that the transition procedures are performed on children who are not of legal consent age and aligned with Peterson’s assertion that these practices are “incredibly evil.” He argued that he was not adequately informed about the implications of puberty blockers, which he incorrectly labeled as sterilization drugs. In reality, puberty blockers are designed to delay puberty and do not directly affect fertility.
These comments marked a significant shift in Musk’s political stance, as he has previously leaned left but is now aligning with right-wing ideologies, particularly concerning LGBTQ+ issues. Musk’s daughter changed her name in 2022 to distance herself from him completely, stating in court that she no longer wants to be associated with her biological father.
Musk’s observations came shortly after announcing relocations of X (formerly Twitter) and SpaceX to Texas, partly in response to California’s legislation that supports transgender rights in schools. As Musk continues to voice his opinions regarding gender-related issues, he faces increased accusations of transphobia and anti-trans rhetoric.
This situation illustrates the complexity of personal relationships amid public discourse, highlighting how personal experiences can influence political views. While the topic is deeply contentious, it’s vital to approach discussions around gender-affirming care with compassion and a commitment to understanding the diverse perspectives on this sensitive issue.
Summary: Elon Musk expressed controversial views regarding his transgender daughter during an interview, labeling gender-affirming care as “child mutilation.” He stated regret over her transition and criticized the process, which has sparked further allegations of transphobia against him. Musk’s political shift towards right-wing views reflects a broader trend in his discourse, as he distances himself from his daughter.