Elon Musk caused an uproar on Monday during Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration celebrations. The SpaceX, Tesla and X owner made gestures resembling fascist-style salutes, sparking widespread criticism online.
The Salute that Raised Eyebrows
Speaking at Washington’s Capital One Arena, Musk thanked Trump supporters, saying, “I just want to say thank you for making it happen.” He then slapped his right hand on his chest before raising his arm diagonally with fingers together and palm down.
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) defines the Nazi salute as “raising an outstretched right arm with the palm down.” Musk repeated the gesture, this time slightly lowering his arm, while adding, “My heart goes out to you. It is thanks to you that the future of civilisation is assured.”
He continued, “Thanks to you. We’re gonna have safe cities, finally safe cities. Secure borders, sensible spending. Basic stuff. And we’re gonna take ‘Doge’ to Mars.”
Social Media Outrage
Many criticised Musk’s actions online. Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a history professor at NYU, tweeted, “Historian of fascism here. It was a Nazi salute and a very belligerent one too.”
Musk did not immediately comment. However, he reposted footage of his remarks and joined memes turning his salutes into jokes.
One X user said, “Can we please retire the calling people a Nazi thing?” Musk replied, “Yeah exactly,” adding a yawning emoji.
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The ADL’s Response
The ADL addressed the incident, saying, “It seems that Elon Musk made an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm, not a Nazi salute.” They urged all sides to show grace and seek unity.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Reacts
Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez strongly criticised the ADL’s statement. She tweeted, “You are defending a Heil Hitler salute that was performed and repeated for emphasis and clarity. People can officially stop listening to you as any sort of reputable source.”
Musk responded, claiming Ocasio-Cortez “has reached Stage 5 [Trump Derangement Syndrome] – fully unhinged.”
Musk’s Ties to Far-Right Politics
Musk’s actions and far-right engagements have drawn criticism before. Last week, he hosted Alice Weidel, leader of Germany’s far-right Alternative für Deutschland party, for a conversation on X. During the discussion, Weidel claimed Hitler was a communist, not a conservative. Musk agreed with her statement.
Far-Right Figures Celebrate Musk’s Actions
Far-right groups and figures praised Musk’s salutes online. Neo-Nazi leader Christopher Pohlhaus wrote, “I don’t care if this was a mistake. I’m going to enjoy the tears over it.” Andrew Torba, founder of far-right platform Gab, called the gestures “incredible.”
Musk’s salutes have polarised the public. Some believe his gestures were intentional, while others see them as innocent. The controversy highlights deep divisions in politics and public opinion.
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