Tesla CEO Elon Musk has made controversial remarks regarding his estranged transgender daughter, asserting that she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. During an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk expressed his intention to “destroy the woke mind virus” and described gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He revealed that his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, who came out as transgender at 16, received gender-affirming treatment during the pandemic.
Musk claimed he was deceived into allowing this treatment, explaining that he thought it was necessary to prevent his child from potentially committing suicide. He expressed concern over the treatment of minors who are below the age of consent and stated he aligns with Peterson’s view that promoting such procedures is “incredibly evil,” suggesting that those responsible should face imprisonment. Musk also contended that he was not adequately informed that puberty blockers could lead to sterilization, although these drugs alone do not directly affect fertility.
Further complicating the situation, Musk revealed his feelings of loss regarding his child and criticized the term “deadnaming,” saying it emphasizes the sense of loss associated with changes in identity. His remarks follow a recent announcement that his companies, including X and SpaceX, will relocate to Texas in response to California’s AB1955, which limits school policies on parental notification concerning transgender students.
Musk’s daughter, who applied for a name change in 2022, stated in court documents that she wishes to be dissociated from her biological father entirely. Musk has attributed their estrangement to her progressive schooling in Los Angeles, a factor he acknowledges has influenced his views and public statements, which have attracted accusations of transphobia. Once known for his center-left ideology, Musk has increasingly adopted right-wing perspectives on various issues, including diversity, election fraud, and immigration, and has recently endorsed Republican figures such as former President Donald Trump.