Billionaire Elon Musk has announced plans to relocate the headquarters of two of his prominent companies, SpaceX and social media platform X, from California to Texas. The decision comes in response to Musk’s objection to a new Californian state law that prohibits schools from mandating the disclosure of information regarding a child’s gender identity, even to parents.
Musk expressed his discontent with the law on social media, labeling it as the ‘last straw’ for him. This move follows his previous decision to move Tesla’s headquarters to Texas in 2021, initially prompted by Covid-related lockdowns.
Elon Musk has been increasingly engaged in US politics recently. He recently endorsed Donald Trump for president and confirmed reports of directing significant financial resources towards the campaign.
The debate over what information schools should share with parents concerning their children’s gender identities has been a contentious issue in the US. LGBTQ advocates emphasize the importance of student privacy, while others argue for parental rights to be informed about their children.
Musk, who has a transgender daughter, has expressed support for the transgender community while expressing reservations about pronouns, which he has referred to as an ‘aesthetic nightmare.’ He previously indicated his intention to lobby against transgender medical treatments for minors.
Elon Musk stated that due to the new law and other legislative actions that he views as detrimental to families and businesses, SpaceX will be relocating its headquarters from Hawthorne, California, to Starbase, Texas. Additionally, X will be moving to Austin, with Musk criticizing the situation in San Francisco, citing concerns about safety and the environment.
California Governor Gavin Newsom, a potential Democratic candidate for the upcoming election, has not responded directly to Musk’s announcements. A spokesperson for the governor defended the law, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding children while respecting parental roles.
Competition among states to attract corporate headquarters is fierce, with the promise of high-paying jobs for residents. Musk, a Texas resident himself, has chosen to align his companies with the business-friendly environment of the state.
