Tesla CEO Elon Musk expressed his strong opposition to gender-affirming care during an interview with psychologist Jordan Peterson, claiming it led to the “death” of his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson. Musk described gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” criticizing the system that allows such care for minors.
Musk revealed that Wilson, who came out as transgender at the age of 16, received gender-affirming care during the pandemic. He mentioned that he felt misled into signing documents related to her transition, expressing regret and confusion during that time. He claimed that he was warned his child might commit suicide, which added to his distress.
In his remarks, Musk condemned the procedures available to young individuals who he believes are not old enough to give consent, agreeing with Peterson’s characterization of it as “incredibly evil.” He stated that education about the implications of puberty blockers, which he believes function as sterilization drugs, was inadequate. Contrary to his claims, puberty blockers do not directly affect fertility.
Musk lamented the estrangement from his daughter, noting that the term “deadnaming” is used because, in his view, his son is “dead” to him. His comments surfaced shortly after he announced plans for his companies, including Tesla, to relocate to Texas, spurred by California’s AB1955 legislation related to transgender rights in schools. Critics have previously accused Musk of transphobia and promoting anti-trans rhetoric.
Wilson, in 2022, sought a name change and a new birth certificate, stating in court documents her desire to sever ties with Musk completely. In Walter Isaacson’s biography, Musk attributed the fractured relationship to Wilson’s progressive schooling in Los Angeles, suggesting that this dynamic has informed his recent “anti-woke” rhetoric.
Historically recognized for his moderate political stance, Musk has recently embraced right-wing ideologies, addressing various topics such as diversity initiatives and immigration. This month, he endorsed the Republican presidential ticket led by former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, both known for their support of fossil fuels and opposition to clean energy initiatives.