Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently stated that his estranged transgender daughter was “killed” following the gender-affirming care she received, a comment that reflects his intention to combat what he refers to as the “woke mind virus.”
These remarks were made during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, where Musk discussed his views on gender-reassignment surgery, labeling it as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He revealed that his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, began identifying as transgender at age 16 and received gender-affirming care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Musk expressed that he felt misled into consenting to medical procedures for his child, claiming he was informed that his child might be at risk of suicide. He now believes that the procedures are administered to minors who cannot legally give consent, agreeing with Peterson’s belief that promoting such practices is “incredibly evil” and should result in imprisonment for those involved.
He also stated that he was not adequately informed about the implications of puberty blockers, arguing that they serve as sterilization drugs, despite medical knowledge indicating that puberty blockers do not directly affect fertility.
“I was tricked into doing this,” Musk said, reflecting on the impact on his relationship with his daughter. He mentioned the concept of “deadnaming,” highlighting that it signifies a loss in relation to his son.
Musk’s comments follow his decision to relocate both X and SpaceX operations to Texas, partly motivated by California’s AB1955, or the SAFETY Act. This law prevents schools from requiring parental notification when a child identifies as transgender and mandates state resources to support LGBTQ+ youth. Musk has faced criticism for perceived anti-trans messaging in the past.
According to court documents from 2022, Musk’s daughter applied for a name change and a new birth certificate, asserting her desire to dissociate from her biological father. It has been suggested that Musk’s strained relationship with Wilson may be influencing his outspoken anti-woke rhetoric.
Musk, who previously held more centrist political views, has shifted towards right-wing themes on various issues such as diversity, election integrity, and immigration. Recently, he offered his support for the Republican presidential candidates, including former President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom have shown resistance to clean energy initiatives.