Tesla CEO Elon Musk has made controversial remarks regarding his estranged transgender daughter, claiming that she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. During an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk expressed his intent to combat what he terms the “woke mind virus.” He condemned gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” sharing that his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, who came out as transgender at the age of 16, had received gender-affirming care during the pandemic.
Musk reflected on being “tricked” into signing documents concerning Wilson, who no longer uses his last name, asserting that he did not fully grasp the situation at the time due to the confusion surrounding COVID-19. He also mentioned being distressed by claims that his child might be at risk of suicide. Musk characterized the procedures performed on children as “incredibly evil,” echoing Peterson’s sentiments, and suggested individuals who promote such practices should face imprisonment. He expressed regret for what he perceives as a loss of his son, stating, “They call it ‘deadnaming’ for a reason. The reason they call it ‘deadnaming’ is because your son is dead.”
These remarks come shortly after Musk announced that his companies, X and SpaceX, would relocate to Texas, largely due to California’s AB1955, known as the SAFETY Act, which restricts schools from requiring parental notification if a child identifies as transgender. Musk, who has faced accusations of transphobia, has consistently linked his strained relationship with Wilson to her progressive education.
In 2022, Wilson sought a name change and a new birth certificate, explicitly stating in court documents her desire to sever ties with her biological father. According to Walter Isaacson’s biography, Musk attributes the rift in their relationship to Wilson’s schooling.
Over recent years, Musk has shifted away from his previously centrist political stance, increasingly endorsing right-wing positions on various issues, including diversity initiatives and immigration. Earlier this month, he endorsed Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both known for their support of the oil industry and opposition to clean energy initiatives.