Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently claimed that his transgender daughter was “killed” following her gender-affirming care, which prompted him to express his intent to “destroy the woke mind virus.”
Musk shared these views during an interview with psychologist Jordan Peterson, where he criticized gender-reassignment surgery, labeling it as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He mentioned that his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, who came out as transgender at 16, underwent gender-affirming treatment during the pandemic.
He expressed regret for what he referred to as being “tricked” into signing documents concerning his child’s transition, suggesting that it was during a time of confusion exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Musk claimed he was led to believe that his child might be at risk of suicide.
Musk also voiced his strong opposition to the practice, stating that it occurs “to children who are far below the age of consent.” He agreed with Peterson’s assertion that it is “incredibly evil” and advocated for imprisonment for those promoting the procedure. He further noted that he was not made aware that puberty blockers could act as sterilization drugs, despite their use not directly impacting fertility.
He expressed deep sorrow, saying, “I lost my son, essentially,” and indicated that terms like “deadnaming” signify an irreversible loss.
This discussion followed Musk’s announcement that X and SpaceX would be relocating to Texas, partly in response to California’s AB1955, also known as the SAFETY Act. This legislation prohibits schools from requiring parent notification if a child identifies as transgender and mandates state support for LGBTQ+ youth. Musk has previously faced accusations of transphobia and has been linked to anti-trans sentiment.
In 2022, Wilson sought a legal name change and a new birth certificate, stating in court documents that she wished to dissociate from her biological father completely. Musk attributed their strained relationship to her progressive education in Los Angeles, as noted in Walter Isaacson’s biography of him, suggesting this estrangement has fueled Musk’s anti-woke rhetoric.
Over recent years, Musk has shifted from center-left political views to adopting more right-wing perspectives on various issues, including diversity, election integrity, and immigration. Earlier this month, he endorsed Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both known for their support of fossil fuels and skepticism towards clean energy initiatives.