Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently made controversial statements regarding his transgender daughter, claiming she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care and expressing a desire to “destroy the woke mind virus.” These remarks were made during an interview with psychologist Jordan Peterson, where Musk referred to gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He stated that his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, sought gender-affirming care during the pandemic and publicly came out as transgender at the age of 16.
Musk recounted feeling misled into signing documents pertaining to his daughter’s transition, stating he was under significant pressure and confusion during the pandemic. He voiced his belief that children should not undergo such treatments before reaching the age of consent and echoed Peterson’s sentiments that promoting these procedures is “incredibly evil,” suggesting that those who advocate for it should face imprisonment. Musk, who has 12 children, claimed he was unaware that puberty blockers could act as sterilization drugs, although it is important to note that puberty blockers alone do not affect fertility.
Expressing regret, Musk stated, “I lost my son, essentially,” and criticized the concept of “deadnaming,” explaining that it signifies a loss of one’s child.
Musk’s comments follow his announcement that Tesla and his other companies, including X and SpaceX, would relocate to Texas in response to California legislation known as AB1955. This law prevents schools from mandating parental notification if a child identifies as transgender and includes resources for LGBTQ+ youth. Musk has faced accusations of transphobia and promoting anti-trans rhetoric in the past.
In 2022, Wilson sought a name change and new birth certificate, affirming her desire to sever ties with her father entirely. Musk has attributed the estrangement to the influence of her progressive school, suggesting that this disconnection has fueled his anti-woke views.
Over recent years, Musk has shifted from his previously center-left political stance to align more with right-wing ideologies, addressing topics such as diversity, election fraud, and immigration. Recently, he publicly supported the Republican presidential ticket, endorsing former President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance, both known for their positions favoring the oil industry and opposing clean energy initiatives.