Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently stated that his estranged transgender daughter was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care, leading him to pledge to “destroy the woke mind virus.”
During an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk criticized gender-reassignment surgery, labeling it as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He mentioned that his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, who is no longer using his surname, received gender-affirming treatment during the pandemic and came out as transgender at the age of 16.
Musk claimed he was misled when he signed documents related to Wilson’s care, stating that he was concerned about her mental health amidst the confusion caused by COVID-19. He expressed regret over not fully understanding the implications of the care being provided, asserting that it was targeted toward children who cannot legally consent. He echoed Peterson’s view that those who advocate for such treatments should face imprisonment. Musk also alleged he was unaware that puberty blockers could lead to sterilization, although medical professionals note that blockers themselves do not directly impact fertility.
Musk expressed deep sorrow, stating, “I lost my son, essentially,” and criticizing the term “deadnaming” by saying it signifies that his son is no longer alive.
These comments follow Musk’s announcement that he would relocate X and SpaceX to Texas in response to California’s AB1955, also known as the SAFETY Act. This legislation prohibits schools from enforcing rules that require parental notification if a child identifies as transgender and mandates that resources be available for LGBTQ+ children. Musk has faced accusations of transphobia in the past.
In 2022, Musk’s daughter filed for a name change and sought a new birth certificate, expressing a desire to disassociate from her biological father. Musk, as noted in Walter Isaacson’s biography, attributes his strained relationship with Wilson to her progressive education in Los Angeles, suggesting it has influenced his vocal anti-woke sentiments.
In recent years, Musk has shifted from center-left views to adopt more right-wing perspectives on various issues, including diversity, election integrity, and immigration. Earlier this month, he endorsed the Republican presidential ticket of Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio, both of whom support the oil industry and oppose clean energy initiatives.