Elon Musk has found himself embroiled in a public dispute with California Governor Gavin Newsom over the issue of transgender rights and his relationship with his transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson. The altercation began after Musk’s America PAC shared a clip of Newsom discussing his record on pro-transgender legislation during an appearance on “The Ezra Klein Show.” In that clip, Newsom stated, “There’s no governor that’s done more pro-trans legislation than I have,” particularly in the context of transgender athletes competing in women’s sports, a stance that has set Newsom apart from many other Democratic leaders.
In the inaugural episode of his own podcast, “This is Gavin Newsom,” the governor criticized the inclusion of transgender athletes in women’s sports as “deeply unfair.” Newsom’s press office responded to Musk’s PAC by making a pointed remark aimed at the billionaire: “Correct. We’re sorry your daughter hates you, Elon.” This comment alluded to Musk’s strained relationship with his daughter following her transition.
Musk fired back with an intense response, asserting that he does not recognize Wilson as his daughter. He referred to her by her birth name, Xavier, claiming that he views Xavier as having a “tragic mental illness” perpetuated by what he described as “the evil woke mind virus.” He emphasized his love for his son while affirming his strong emotional connection with his other children: Azure, Exa (who goes by Y), and Arcadia.
In further remarks, Musk posted a statement on his social media profile declaring, “If you have a womb, you are a woman. Otherwise, you are not.” In a previous interview with Dr. Jordan Peterson, Musk expressed regret over consenting to Wilson’s use of puberty blockers, stating he felt he had been “tricked” into agreeing to the treatment during the chaotic period of the COVID pandemic. He recounted the pressure he felt at the time, believing that his son might face severe consequences if he did not comply.
Musk’s comments also addressed the concept of “deadnaming,” which refers to the practice of calling a transgender individual by their birth name. He lamented the loss he feels regarding his son, noting, “They call it deadnaming for a reason. The reason it’s called ‘deadnaming’ is because your son is dead.” Addressing the psychological impact of societal pressures and the advocacy for transgender rights, Musk declared his intent to combat what he perceives as detrimental influences, mentioning his commitment to “destroy the woke mind virus.”
This exchange highlights ongoing tensions surrounding transgender rights and personal relationships, illustrating the complex dynamics at play in the public discourse influenced by personal experiences and political positions.
