Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk has made controversial remarks about his estranged transgender daughter, claiming she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. Musk stated this during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, emphasizing his intent to counter what he calls the “woke mind virus.”
Musk criticized gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” commenting on the experience of his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson. He recounted that she came out as transgender at the age of 16 and underwent gender-affirming treatment during the pandemic. Musk admitted that he felt misled into consent for the treatment, stating he had concerns about Wilson’s mental health at the time, which contributed to his decision.
He expressed strong disapproval of procedures conducted on minors, labeling them “incredibly evil” and suggesting that advocates for such measures should face imprisonment. While discussing puberty blockers, Musk claimed he was not made aware that these medications function as sterilization drugs, despite evidence indicating they do not impact fertility independently.
Musk reflected on the estrangement from his daughter, stating, “I lost my son, essentially,” as he referenced the concept of “deadnaming” in the transgender community. His comments coincided with his announcement that X and SpaceX would relocate to Texas, citing dissatisfaction with California’s AB1955 legislation, which limits parental notification regarding a child’s transgender identification.
Wilson sought a legal name change in 2022, stating in court documents that she wishes to sever ties with Musk entirely. Musk has attributed the rift in their relationship to the influence of her progressive education in Los Angeles, as noted by biographer Walter Isaacson.
In recent times, Musk has shifted politically, adopting more right-wing views, particularly on topics like diversity, election integrity, and immigration. Recently, he endorsed the Republican ticket, including former President Donald Trump, aligning with figures advocating for fossil fuel interests and opposing clean energy initiatives.