The controversy erupted after Elon Musk’s political action committee shared a video clip on X of California Governor Gavin Newsom saying he wanted to see more transgender students supported in the state. California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office responded directly to the post, writing, “We’re sorry your daughter hates you, Elon,” publicly referencing Musk’s strained relationship with his transgender child. Musk replied saying, “I assume you’re referring to my son, Xavier, who has a tragic mental illness caused by the evil woke mind virus you push on vulnerable children. I love Xavier very much and hope he recovers.” He added that he loved her and hoped she would “recover,” comments that quickly went viral and drew sharp backlash across social media. Musk’s daughter legally changed her name and gender in 2022 and previously filed court documents seeking to sever ties, citing a lack of support from her father.

The controversy erupted after Elon Musk’s political action committee shared a video clip on X of California Governor Gavin Newsom saying he wanted to see more transgender students supported in the state. California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office responded directly to the post, writing, “We’re sorry your daughter hates you, Elon,” publicly referencing Musk’s strained relationship with his transgender child. Musk replied saying, “I assume you’re referring to my son, Xavier, who has a tragic mental illness caused by the evil woke mind virus you push on vulnerable children. I love Xavier very much and hope he recovers.” He added that he loved her and hoped she would “recover,” comments that quickly went viral and drew sharp backlash across social media. Musk’s daughter legally changed her name and gender in 2022 and previously filed court documents seeking to sever ties, citing a lack of support from her father.