In a recent interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Tesla CEO Elon Musk made controversial remarks regarding his transgender daughter, claiming she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. Musk expressed his intention to “destroy the woke mind virus,” while criticizing gender-reassignment surgery, which he referred to as “child mutilation and sterilization.” His daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, came out as transgender at the age of 16 and received gender-affirming treatment during the COVID pandemic.
Musk stated that he felt misled into signing documents concerning his daughter, describing a confusing time exacerbated by the pandemic. He claimed he was informed that his child was at risk of suicide, which influenced his decision-making process. In his comments, Musk argued that such medical procedures are performed on children who are too young to provide consent, echoing Peterson’s sentiments that it is “incredibly evil” and suggested heavy penalties for those who promote such practices.
The comments come after Musk revealed that X and SpaceX would be relocating to Texas, citing California’s AB1955, or the SAFETY Act, which restricts schools from requiring parental notification if a child identifies as transgender. Musk has faced accusations of transphobia and promoting anti-trans narratives in the past.
Wilson applied for a name change in 2022, stating in court documents that she wishes to sever ties with her father entirely. Musk attributed their strained relationship to the influence of her progressive school in Los Angeles, a dynamic he claims fuels his anti-woke rhetoric.
In recent years, Musk has shifted from his previously center-left political stance to adopt more right-wing views on various issues including diversity, electoral fraud, and immigration. Earlier this month, he endorsed the Republican presidential ticket of former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance.