Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently stated that his estranged transgender daughter was “killed” after she received gender-affirming care, prompting him to express a desire to “destroy the woke mind virus.”
During an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk labeled gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He explained that his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, underwent gender-affirming care during the pandemic and came out as transgender at the age of 16.
Musk described feeling misled into signing documents regarding his daughter, whom he referred to as his “older boy,” before he had a full understanding of the situation. Citing the confusion brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, he recalled being informed that she might contemplate suicide, leading him to believe he had to act quickly.
He argued that medical procedures are being performed on children who are far under the age of consent, and he agrees with Peterson that promoting such practices is “incredibly evil,” suggesting that individuals endorsing these procedures should face imprisonment. Musk, who has 12 children, claimed he was not made aware that puberty blockers are effectively sterilization drugs on their own, despite the fact that they do not impact fertility.
Musk expressed regret, saying, “I was tricked into doing this. I lost my son, essentially,” mentioning the term “deadnaming” to illustrate his feelings about his daughter’s transition.
These comments come shortly after Musk announced plans for X and SpaceX to relocate to Texas, aligning with his businesses Tesla’s move in opposition to California’s AB1955, legislation that limits parental notification for schools regarding a child’s transgender identification.
In 2022, Musk’s daughter filed for a name change, stating in court documents that she wished to sever ties with her biological father. According to the biography by Walter Isaacson, Musk attributes their estrangement to her progressive school in Los Angeles, suggesting that this relationship breakdown has influenced his public stance against what he calls “woke” culture.
In recent years, Musk has shifted from his previously center-left political views to adopt more right-wing positions, addressing issues such as diversity, election integrity, and immigration. Earlier this month, he endorsed the Republican ticket of former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom champion the oil industry and oppose clean energy initiatives.