Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently expressed his controversial views on gender-affirming care during an interview with psychologist Jordan Peterson. Musk claimed that his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, was “killed” following her receiving such care, prompting him to declare his mission to “destroy the woke mind virus.”
During the discussion, Musk described gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He recounted that his daughter began identifying as transgender at the age of 16, undergoing gender-affirming treatment during the pandemic. Musk revealed that he felt coerced into allowing the treatment for his daughter due to concerns about suicide.
Musk criticized the practice of providing gender-affirming care to minors, stating that it is “incredibly evil” and suggested that those who advocate for it should face imprisonment. He also claimed he was not informed that puberty blockers could be considered sterilizing agents, a statement that has drawn scrutiny since puberty blockers do not directly affect fertility.
He lamented the loss of his relationship with his daughter since her transition, referring to the term “deadnaming” as indicative of his perceived loss. Musk’s remarks follow his announcement that X and SpaceX would relocate to Texas, driven partly by California’s legislation on transgender youth.
In 2022, Wilson sought a name change and a new birth certificate, indicating she wished to sever ties with her father. Musk has attributed his strained relationship with her to what he calls her progressive education, which he believes has influenced her views.
Over recent years, Musk, known for his previous centrist stance, has increasingly adopted right-wing perspectives, particularly on issues such as diversity and immigration. His recent endorsements for the Republican party reflect this shift, affirming his support for candidates aligned with traditional energy policies.