Elon Musk is facing backlash after a gesture he made at President Donald Trump’s post-inauguration rally drew comparisons to a Nazi salute. The controversy erupted following Musk’s speech at the Capitol One Arena in Washington, D.C., where he thanked supporters for their role in Trump’s re-election.
Here’s what happened, how different groups have reacted, and the broader implications.
Elon Musk’s hand gesture goes viral
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, sparked widespread controversy with a salute-like gesture at a post-inauguration rally for President Donald Trump.
While speaking at Washington D.C.’s Capitol One Arena, Musk placed his hand on his chest before extending his arm outward with an open palm. The gesture, repeated while addressing the audience behind the podium, drew comparisons to a Nazi or Roman salute, causing debate across social media platforms.
Historians and observers offered differing interpretations. Claire Aubin, a historian specializing in Nazism in the U.S., described the motion as a “sieg heil” salute (via The Australian). Another historian, Aaron Astor, dismissed the comparison, attributing the gesture to Musk’s social awkwardness, referencing his diagnosis of Asperger’s syndrome in 2021. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) stated the movement appeared “awkward but not a Nazi salute.”
The incident quickly gained traction online, with politicians and media outlets commenting on the event. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticized the ADL’s defense, asserting the salute was intentional. Conversely, some rally attendees and Musk supporters dismissed the controversy, viewing the motion as unintentional or sarcastic. Musk responded to the criticisms on X, stating, “The “everyone is Hitler” attack is sooo tired.”
Further scrutiny arose due to Musk’s financial contributions to Trump’s campaign and his recent statements supporting far-right political parties in Europe. Reports indicated that far-right figures in the U.S. praised the gesture. Musk has not directly commented on the gesture’s interpretation but thanked the ADL for its support on X.
The debate over Musk’s actions underscores ongoing tensions around symbolism and political discourse in highly polarized environments. The incident highlights the broader implications of public figures’ gestures and rhetoric in today’s global and social media-driven landscape.
