In a recent interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Tesla CEO Elon Musk made controversial remarks about his transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, suggesting that she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. Musk described gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization” and claimed that he was misled into supporting his daughter’s transition when she was 16 during the pandemic.
He expressed regret about signing documents related to Wilson’s care, saying, “I was essentially tricked,” and indicated that he was concerned about her mental health during that time. Musk condemned the procedures for children below the age of consent, aligning with Peterson’s views that advocating for such care is “incredibly evil.” He stated that he was not informed that puberty blockers could be considered sterilization drugs.
Musk stated, “I lost my son, essentially,” referring to the concept of “deadnaming,” a term used when someone is referred to by their birth name after transitioning. His comments follow his decision to move Tesla and other companies to Texas in response to California legislation related to transgender support in schools, which he has criticized.
Wilson, who applied for a name change in 2022 and expressed her desire to sever ties with her father, has been the subject of Musk’s commentary regarding his strained relationship with her. His views on transgender issues have drawn accusations of transphobia.
Musk’s political stance has shifted in recent years from center-left to more right-wing beliefs, including support for the Republican Party’s ticket in the upcoming presidential election, showcasing his evolving position on various social issues.