Fact Check: Elon Musk claimed once that "woke virus" killing his transgender child on the right wing media

Fact Check: "Elon Musk claimed once that 'woke virus' killing his transgender child on the right wing media"

What We Know

Elon Musk has publicly expressed his views on his transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, in a manner that has sparked significant controversy. In a response to a New York Post article about Wilson's decision to leave the United States, Musk stated, “The woke virus killed my son” on his social media platform, X (formerly Twitter) (source). This comment aligns with Musk's broader criticisms of what he refers to as the "woke mind virus," which he has discussed in various interviews, including a notable appearance on The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast (source).

Musk's remarks have been characterized as dismissive and hurtful by many, particularly in the context of his daughter's transition. Wilson, who legally changed her name and gender in 2022, has publicly distanced herself from Musk, stating that she does not wish to be associated with him (source). In interviews, she has described Musk as an absent and unsupportive father, which adds a personal dimension to the public discourse surrounding their relationship (source).

Analysis

The claim that Musk said the "woke virus killed my son" is substantiated by multiple credible sources. His statement was made in a public forum and has been widely reported in the media, confirming its authenticity. For instance, during his podcast interview with Peterson, Musk expressed resentment over his daughter's transition, indicating that he felt she had been "killed by the woke mind virus" (source). This phrase has been interpreted as Musk's way of blaming societal changes regarding gender identity for his estrangement from Wilson.

The sources reporting on this incident include reputable media outlets and platforms that cover LGBTQ+ issues extensively. However, it is important to note that Musk's statements are often framed within a broader narrative of his political and social views, which can be polarizing. His alignment with right-wing ideologies and criticisms of "woke" culture may influence how his comments are perceived (source).

While Musk's comments reflect his personal beliefs and experiences, they also contribute to a larger conversation about the treatment of transgender individuals and the societal implications of such rhetoric. Critics argue that his language perpetuates stigma and misunderstanding regarding transgender identities, which can have real-world consequences for those in the transgender community (source).

Conclusion

Verdict: True
Elon Musk did indeed claim that "the woke virus killed my son" in reference to his transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson. This statement has been corroborated by multiple sources and reflects his contentious views on gender identity and societal changes. The context of his remarks, combined with his estrangement from Wilson, underscores the complexity of their relationship and the broader implications of his rhetoric.