Tesla CEO Elon Musk made headlines during an interview with psychologist and commentator Jordan Peterson, where he expressed deep regret over his estranged transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, claiming that she was “killed” by the effects of gender-affirming care. In his remarks, Musk described gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization,” asserting that Wilson, who identified as trans at the age of 16, underwent such procedures during the pandemic.
Musk shared that he felt deceived into endorsing medical decisions for Wilson, noting that he was misled into thinking it was a matter of life and death. He claimed he was initially unaware of the implications of the care being provided, particularly during the confusion surrounding COVID-19.
According to Musk, this care is dispensed to minors “who are far below the age of consent,” and he echoed Peterson’s condemnation, labeling it “incredibly evil” and suggesting that promoters of such practices should face imprisonment. Musk, who has a total of 12 children, alleged he was not informed that puberty blockers could be equated to sterilization drugs, though it is important to note that puberty blockers themselves do not directly affect fertility.
In his distress, Musk remarked, “I was tricked into doing this. I lost my son, essentially,” referring to what he calls “deadnaming,” indicating a profound loss in his relationship with his child.
These comments followed Musk’s recent announcement that his companies, including X and SpaceX, would relocate to Texas in response to California’s AB1955 legislation, which prohibits schools from requiring parental notification if a student identifies as transgender and mandates state resources for support of LGBTQ+ youth. Musk has faced accusations of promoting transphobia and anti-trans messaging in the past.
Wilson sought legal recognition for a name change and a new birth certificate in 2022, stating her desire to sever all ties with her biological father. Musk has attributed their strained relationship to what he describes as the progressive environment of Wilson’s school in Los Angeles. In Walter Isaacson’s biography of Musk, it is suggested that this estrangement has significantly influenced Musk’s vocal anti-woke views.
Historically known for his progressive political stance, Musk has shifted towards conservative rhetoric on various issues, including diversity policies and election integrity. Recently, he has expressed support for the Republican party’s presidential candidates, including former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, who advocate for the oil sector and oppose clean energy initiatives.