Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently voiced his controversial opinions regarding his transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, stating that she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. Musk made these remarks during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, where he criticized gender-reassignment surgery, labeling it as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He noted that Wilson, who identifies as transgender and no longer uses Musk’s last name, came out during the pandemic at the age of 16 and underwent gender-affirming treatment.
Musk claimed that he was misled into consenting to medical procedures for his child, recalling a time filled with confusion amid the COVID-19 pandemic when he was told his daughter might be at risk of suicide. He expressed concern about such medical procedures being administered to minors who are not of legal consent age, agreeing with Peterson’s assertion that it is “incredibly evil” and suggesting that those advocating for these practices should face imprisonment. Despite his comments, fertility experts clarify that puberty blockers, which Musk referred to as sterilization drugs, do not directly impact fertility.
Musk stated, “I was tricked into doing this. I lost my son, essentially,” referring to the term “deadnaming” and the emotional weight it carries. His comments come shortly after announcing that his businesses, including X and SpaceX, would relocate to Texas in response to California’s AB1955, known as the SAFETY Act. This legislation prohibits schools from enforcing rules that mandate parental notification when a child identifies as transgender and requires state support for LGBTQ+ youth.
In 2022, Wilson sought a name change and new birth certificate, expressing a desire to sever ties with her biological father. Musk has attributed their estrangement to her progressive education in Los Angeles, and his relationship with her has been described in Walter Isaacson’s biography as a factor in Musk’s emerging “anti-woke sentiments.”
In recent years, Musk has shifted from his previously center-left political stance to adopt more right-wing views on issues ranging from diversity initiatives to immigration and election integrity. Earlier this month, he endorsed the Republican ticket of former President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom support the oil industry and oppose clean energy initiatives.