Tesla CEO Elon Musk claimed that his estranged transgender daughter was “killed” after she received gender-affirming care, prompting him to express a desire to “destroy the woke mind virus.” Musk made these statements during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson.
In the interview, Musk described gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He mentioned his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, who came out as transgender at the age of 16 and received gender-affirming care during the pandemic. Musk stated that he felt “tricked” into signing documents regarding Wilson’s care, citing a lack of understanding at the time and the confusion stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. He expressed concern that he was led to believe that his child might commit suicide if he did not support her transition.
Musk criticized the practice of providing gender-affirming treatments to children who are below the age of consent, agreeing with Peterson’s assertion that it is “incredibly evil” and suggesting that those who promote such practices should face imprisonment. He also claimed that he was unaware that puberty blockers could be construed as “sterilization drugs,” despite research indicating that puberty blockers alone do not affect fertility.
During the conversation, Musk lamented the loss of his son and referenced the term “deadnaming,” implying that his child is no longer alive to him due to the name change. His statements come shortly after he announced that companies under his leadership, including X and SpaceX, would relocate to Texas in response to California legislation known as the SAFETY Act. This law restricts schools from informing parents if their child identifies as transgender and mandates the provision of resources for LGBTQ+ youth.
Musk’s daughter sought a name change and new birth certificate in 2022, expressing in court documents her desire to sever ties with her father. Elon Musk has attributed the strained relationship to his daughter’s education at a progressive school, which he believes has influenced her views.
In recent years, Musk, who once held more centrist political views, has increasingly adopted right-wing perspectives on various issues, including diversity, election integrity, and immigration. He recently endorsed Donald Trump’s presidential bid as well as that of Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom support the oil industry and oppose clean energy initiatives.