Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently expressed deep concern over his transgender daughter’s experience with gender-affirming care, which he described as having “killed” her. In a broadcast interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk condemned the practice, referring to gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He noted that his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, began her transition during the pandemic when she was just 16 years old.
Musk shared that he felt misled when he signed documents related to his daughter’s care, adding that the pandemic created a confusing environment. He expressed his fears at the time, stating he was informed that his child might be at risk of suicide.
Musk asserted that such medical procedures are administered to minors who are below the age of consent and aligned with Peterson in labeling it as “incredibly evil,” suggesting that those who support such practices should face imprisonment. The billionaire father, who has twelve children, claimed that he was never properly informed that puberty blockers, commonly used in gender-affirming care, serve as sterilization drugs, although they do not directly affect fertility.
In his statements, Musk lamented the loss of his son, claiming that the term “deadnaming” reflects the gravity of his situation. His remarks follow his announcement that both X and SpaceX would relocate to Texas, driven by his opposition to California’s AB1955, which protects transgender children’s rights in schools.
Musk’s daughter applied for a name change in 2022, stating in court documents her desire to sever ties with her biological father. This estrangement has been attributed to Musk’s views, as noted in Walter Isaacson’s biography, suggesting that his strained relationship with Wilson has influenced his growing “anti-woke” attitudes.
In a notable political shift, Musk, known for his previously moderate political stance, has been vocal in supporting right-wing views on various issues including diversity initiatives and immigration. Recently, he endorsed the Republican presidential ticket that includes Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance, both advocates of the oil industry and opponents of clean energy initiatives.