Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, recently made controversial statements regarding his transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, claiming she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. During an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk voiced his intentions to “destroy the woke mind virus” and described gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.”
Musk reflected on Vivian’s transition, noting that she came out as transgender at the age of 16 and received gender-affirming treatment during the pandemic. He expressed regret over signing documents related to her care, claiming he was misled and concerned about her mental health amid the confusion surrounding COVID-19.
He asserted that medical interventions for minors are unjust and labeled anyone promoting such treatments as “incredibly evil,” suggesting they should face imprisonment. Musk, a father of 12, stated he was unaware that puberty blockers could be regarded as sterilization drugs. He expressed feelings of loss over his son’s transition, claiming that the term “deadnaming” illustrates the depth of his distress.
These comments follow Musk’s announcement that his companies, including X and SpaceX, would relocate to Texas, citing California’s laws concerning parental notification about transgender identity in schools. Musk has faced accusations of transphobia and anti-trans messaging in the past.
In 2022, Vivian sought a name change and new birth certificate, stating in court that she wished to sever ties with her father. Musk has attributed their estrangement to progressive influences at her school, which he believes have affected their relationship. He has also shifted his political views to align more closely with right-wing perspectives on various issues, including endorsing Republican candidates in the recent presidential race.