Elon Musk Makes Baseless Claims Linking "White Male" Transitioning to "Propaganda"

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX and owner of platform X (formerly Twitter), has once again ignited controversy with recent comments suggesting that "anti-white male propaganda" is a major factor causing white men to transition genders. The remarks, made on September 3, 2025, via Musk’s personal social media account, quickly drew criticism from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, health professionals, and social commentators for their lack of evidence and potential to fuel harmful stereotypes.

In his post, Musk stated: “The major driver of white males transitioning is propaganda against white males.” No verifiable data or peer-reviewed studies were cited to support these claims, which run counter to established research on transgender identities and the factors influencing gender transition. Musk did not respond to media requests for clarification.

The Human Rights Campaign and GLAAD swiftly condemned Musk’s remarks, emphasizing the importance of respecting transgender people and relying on factual information when discussing gender identity. Advocates pointed out that transgender identities are recognized across all demographics and are not restricted to any particular race or gender. The causes behind someone’s gender transition are complex, encompassing personal, psychological, and social factors, and are not driven by targeted propaganda against any group.

Sarah Ellis, CEO of GLAAD, stated: “Musk’s comments perpetuate dangerous misinformation and distract from the real challenges transgender people face, including discrimination, lack of access to affirming healthcare, and violence. There is no credible evidence to support the idea that propaganda is causing white males to transition. These narratives threaten the safety and dignity of all transgender people.”

Medical experts and sociologists have long debunked theories that suggest external propaganda can cause someone to transition genders. According to the American Psychological Association, being transgender is not a trend or a reaction to societal messaging, but a deeply rooted aspect of an individual’s identity. The process of transitioning often involves significant reflection and, in many cases, medical and psychological support.

Dr. Rachel Levine, Assistant Secretary for Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, explained: “Transgender people exist in every culture, race, and socioeconomic group. The unfounded suggestion that propaganda is influencing transitions among white males is both misleading and stigmatizing. It undermines the work being done to support transgender Americans and address their actual needs.”

Musk’s comments come at a time when anti-transgender rhetoric has been on the rise in public discourse, amplified by influential voices on social media. Previous incidents involving Musk include his January 2024 statement labeling the term “cisgender” as “heterophobic”—a claim that was widely disputed by LGBTQ+ organizations and linguists.

The spread of conspiracy theories such as the “Great Replacement” has also intersected with discussions about birth rates, race, and gender identity. Scholars have noted that Musk’s previous statements on declining birth rates and his engagement with far-right talking points have contributed to confusion and misinformation around these issues. While Musk has publicly disagreed with some aspects of the "Great Replacement" theory, his fusion of concerns about birth rates and identity politics continues to attract criticism from both academic and activist communities.

Transgender people face unique challenges, including social stigmatization, discrimination, and barriers to healthcare. Peer-reviewed research consistently shows that gender identity is established early in life and is not the product of external persuasion or propaganda. The assertion that “white males” are transitioning due to propaganda ignores the lived experiences of transgender individuals and the diversity within the community.

Vivian Jenna Wilson, Musk’s own daughter, underwent a gender transition and distanced herself from her father—an event documented in Walter Isaacson’s 2023 authorized biography of Musk. While Musk reportedly became more politically right-leaning following their estrangement, Wilson has publicly refuted claims about her political beliefs and motivations, underscoring the personal nature of gender identity and family relationships.

LGBTQ+ organizations urge media outlets and public figures to exercise responsibility when discussing transgender people and issues related to gender identity. Disinformation and unfounded theories can have severe consequences, including increased harassment, mental health challenges, and policy setbacks for the transgender community. Advocacy groups continue to call for improved education, access to affirming healthcare, and greater visibility for transgender people’s lived experiences.

In the wake of Musk’s remarks, social media platforms and community leaders have renewed calls to amplify accurate information and to challenge narratives that undermine the rights and dignity of transgender people.

Elon Musk’s speculation about “anti-white male propaganda” as a cause for gender transition among white men has been widely criticized by LGBTQ+ advocates, medical professionals, and scholars for lacking evidence and perpetuating harmful myths. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of grounding public discourse in verifiable facts and supporting all members of the LGBTQ+ community with respect and affirmation.