Tesla CEO Elon Musk expressed controversial views about his transgender daughter, claiming she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. During an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk criticized gender-reassignment surgery, labeling it as “child mutilation and sterilization.” His daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, came out as transgender at age 16 and underwent gender-affirming procedures amid the pandemic.
Musk recounted his feelings of being misled when he signed documents regarding his child’s care, which he claimed was influenced by concerns that Wilson might attempt suicide. He described the medical procedures as being performed on minors, asserting that those who support such practices should face imprisonment, reflecting his agreement with Peterson’s views. Musk further stated that he was unaware that puberty blockers could be considered sterilization drugs, although they do not by themselves affect fertility.
He conveyed a sense of loss over his son’s identity, emphasizing the emotional impact of what is termed “deadnaming,” which refers to the use of an individual’s birth name after they have transitioned. Musk’s remarks surfaced shortly after announcing plans for his companies, including Tesla and SpaceX, to relocate to Texas in response to California’s SAFETY Act, which protects transgender students’ rights.
Musk’s relationship with his daughter has frayed, with Wilson applying for a name change to dissociate from him entirely. In a biography by Walter Isaacson, Musk attributed their estrangement to her progressive schooling, suggesting it has contributed to his outspoken opposition to “woke” culture.
Over the past few years, Musk has shifted from center-left politics to embrace right-wing ideologies, taking stances on various issues, including diversity, election integrity, and energy policies. Recently, he expressed support for the Republican presidential campaign of former President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance, both known for their positions on fossil fuels and skepticism towards clean energy initiatives.