Tesla CEO Elon Musk made controversial remarks regarding his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, claiming that her gender-affirming care contributed to a loss he feels, which he described as her being “killed.” During an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk denounced gender-reassignment surgery, labeling it as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He stated that Wilson, who transitioned at 16, underwent gender-affirming care during the pandemic.
“I was essentially tricked into signing documents for one of my older boys,” Musk remarked, indicating that he was unaware of the implications at the time due to the confusion surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. He expressed concern that he had been told Wilson might consider suicide. Musk voiced his agreement with Peterson’s assertion that the process is harmful, especially for minors who cannot provide informed consent. He also claimed he was not informed that puberty blockers could lead to sterilization, although such drugs do not independently cause infertility.
Musk expressed regret about his daughter’s transition, stating, “I was tricked into doing this. I lost my son, essentially.” He highlighted the term “deadnaming,” suggesting it signifies the loss of his son. His comments follow his announcement that both X and SpaceX will relocate to Texas in response to California’s AB1955, legislation that prohibits schools from informing parents if their child identifies as transgender and mandates resources for LGBTQ+ youth.
In 2022, Wilson applied for a name change and a new birth certificate, expressing a desire to sever ties with Musk. He has lamented their estranged relationship, attributing it to her progressive schooling, according to biographer Walter Isaacson. Musk’s transformation from center-left political views to right-wing rhetoric includes strong stances on various issues such as diversity, election integrity, and immigration. Recently, he endorsed former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom have advocated for the oil industry and opposed clean energy initiatives.