Tesla CEO Elon Musk stated during an interview with psychologist Jordan Peterson that he feels his estranged transgender daughter was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. Musk expressed his intentions to “destroy the woke mind virus” in light of these events.
He referred to gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” sharing that his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, came out as transgender at 16 and underwent gender-affirming care during the pandemic. Musk claimed he was misled into signing documents related to his daughter’s transition without fully understanding the situation, particularly amid the confusion caused by COVID-19. He expressed concern over the age at which children are allowed to undergo these procedures and aligned with Peterson, stating that anyone endorsing such actions should face imprisonment.
Musk, who has a total of 12 children, suggested that he was not informed that puberty blockers could function as sterilization drugs. He described his experience as being deceived, saying, “I essentially lost my son.” He further argued that the term “deadnaming” signifies that one’s child is no longer present.
These remarks were made following Musk’s announcement that he would be relocating X and SpaceX to Texas, joining Tesla, due to California’s SAFETY Act, which restricts schools from notifying parents if a child identifies as transgender. Musk has faced accusations of promoting anti-trans rhetoric in the past.
In 2022, Wilson applied for a name change and a new birth certificate, stating in court documents that she no longer wishes to have any connection to her biological father. Musk has attributed the strained relationship with his daughter to the progressivism of her school in Los Angeles.
Over the years, Musk has shifted from center-left politics to embracing right-wing views on various issues, including diversity and climate policies. Recently, he endorsed the Republican presidential ticket, which includes former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both known for their support of the oil industry and opposition to clean energy initiatives.