Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently expressed his controversial views about gender-affirming care for minors during an interview with psychologist Jordan Peterson. Musk claimed that his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, was metaphorically “killed” by the care she received, stating that he aims to “destroy the woke mind virus.”
Musk described gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization” and mentioned that Wilson, who came out as transgender at age 16, underwent gender-affirming care amid the pandemic. He recounted feeling misled into signing documents related to her care, asserting that he was uninformed and faced a lot of confusion during that period, including concerns about her mental health.
He criticized the practice of administering such treatments to minors, stating that it is “incredibly evil,” and suggested that those who advocate for it should face imprisonment. Musk also claimed that he was not informed that puberty blockers function like sterilization drugs, despite the fact that they do not necessarily affect fertility on their own.
Describing his feelings about the situation, Musk lamented, “I lost my son, essentially,” and referenced the term “deadnaming,” indicating a deep personal struggle with his daughter’s transition.
Musk’s remarks coincided with his announcement that his companies, including X and SpaceX, will relocate to Texas, a move influenced by California’s AB1955, or the SAFETY Act. This law prohibits schools from requiring parental notification if a child identifies as transgender.
In a personal context, Musk’s daughter applied for a name change and a new birth certificate in 2022, stating in court documents her desire to sever ties with her father completely. According to biographer Walter Isaacson, Musk has attributed the strained relationship with Wilson to her progressive education in Los Angeles, suggesting it has played a role in his “anti-woke” rhetoric.
Historically known for his moderate political stance, Musk has shifted towards right-wing ideologies, addressing issues such as diversity, election fraud, and immigration. Recently, he endorsed the Republican presidential ticket, backing former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, who both advocate for the oil industry and oppose clean energy initiatives.