Tesla CEO Elon Musk expressed his disappointment regarding his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, suggesting that her decision to receive gender-affirming care has caused him to feel as though she has been “killed.” During an interview with psychologist Jordan Peterson, Musk criticized gender-reassignment surgery, labeling it as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He mentioned that Wilson, who came out as transgender at the age of 16, received such care during the pandemic.
Musk claimed he was deceived into signing documents related to his daughter’s care and referenced concerns about her mental health at the time, believing she might be at risk of suicide. He argued that medical procedures are performed on children who are not yet at the age of consent and expressed his agreement with Peterson that promoting them is “incredibly evil,” calling for serious consequences for those advocating for such treatments.
Furthermore, Musk claimed he was not informed that puberty blockers, which do not affect fertility directly, were essentially sterilization drugs. He commented, “I was tricked into doing this,” and expressed a sense of loss over his relationship with his daughter, hinting at the emotional toll of being referred to as “deadnaming” when she chose to distance herself from him.
These statements come shortly after Musk announced moves for his companies, including X and SpaceX, to relocate to Texas, partly in response to California’s AB1955 legislation. This law prohibits schools from notifying parents if their child identifies as transgender and mandates state support for LGBTQ+ youth. Musk’s comments have led to accusations of him promoting anti-trans messaging, especially after Wilson sought a name change and expressed her desire to sever ties with her father entirely.
In his recent shift towards right-wing perspectives, Musk has advocated against diversity initiatives and has voiced support for Republican figures, including former President Donald Trump.