Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently expressed his distress over his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, claiming that she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. He vowed to “destroy the woke mind virus” during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson.
In the discussion, Musk referred to gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He revealed that Wilson came out as transgender at the age of 16 and received gender-affirming care during the pandemic. Musk stated that he felt misled into signing documents related to his daughter’s transition, emphasizing that he was unprepared and confused during the chaotic time of COVID-19.
He claimed that caregivers suggested Wilson might attempt suicide, which influenced his decision. Musk argued that such medical procedures should not be performed on minors who cannot give informed consent, agreeing with Peterson that promoting these practices is “incredibly evil” and should lead to imprisonment for those advocating it.
Musk also stated he was unaware that puberty blockers are akin to sterilization drugs, although evidence indicates that blockers do not typically affect long-term fertility. He expressed his sadness over losing his son and referred to the concept of “deadnaming,” indicating a deep sense of loss associated with his daughter’s transition.
These comments emerged shortly after Musk announced plans for his companies, including X and SpaceX, to relocate to Texas, partially in response to California’s AB1955, known as the SAFETY Act. This legislation prohibits schools from mandating parental notification when a child identifies as transgender and requires resources for LGBTQ+ youth from the State Department. Musk has faced criticism for alleged transphobia and anti-trans rhetoric in the past.
In 2022, Wilson applied for a name change and requested a new birth certificate, stating in court that she wished to sever ties with her father. Musk has attributed his estranged relationship with his daughter to the influence of her progressive school in Los Angeles, a dynamic that some see as contributing to his “anti-woke sentiments.”
Over recent years, Musk has shifted from a center-left political stance to embrace more right-wing viewpoints, including opposing diversity initiatives and questioning election integrity. In a recent endorsement, he supported the Republican presidential ticket featuring former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom advocate traditional energy policies.