Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, expressed strong criticism regarding gender-affirming care for children during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson. He referred to the decisions surrounding such care as “child mutilation and sterilization” and claimed that his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, was effectively “killed” by the process after she underwent gender-affirming treatment during the pandemic.
Musk alleged that he felt misled into allowing his child, who he referred to with her previous name, to undergo treatment at a time when he lacked full understanding, citing the confusion surrounding COVID-19. He also indicated that concerns about Wilson’s potential suicidal thoughts played a role in his decisions at the time.
Musk criticized the age at which children are subjected to such procedures and conveyed agreement with Peterson’s view that promoting these practices is “incredibly evil,” suggesting that those supporting the initiatives should face imprisonment. He claimed that he was not informed that puberty blockers could lead to sterilization, despite medical guidance suggesting that puberty blockers do not inherently affect fertility.
In his remarks, Musk stated, “I lost my son, essentially,” commenting on the implications of “deadnaming” and what it signifies about his personal loss. His comments come shortly after he announced relocations for his companies, citing California legislation that restricts parental notification regarding transgender identification in schools.
Vivian Jenna Wilson, who in 2022 petitioned for a name change and a new birth certificate, made clear in court documents that she wishes to sever ties with Musk. The estrangement has been linked to Musk’s emerging anti-woke rhetoric, which contrasts with his previously more centrist political views. Recently, he has shown alignment with right-wing politics, including endorsements for prominent Republican figures.