Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, faced backlash after allegedly making a gesture resembling a Nazi salute. The incident occurred during his speech at President Donald Trump’s inauguration rally on January 20, 2025, at the Capital One Arena.
Controversial Gesture Sparks Outrage
Musk addressed the crowd with a speech celebrating Trump’s victory, calling it “a fork in the road of human civilization.” While speaking, he placed his right hand on his chest and extended his arm upward twice. Critics quickly condemned the action, comparing it to the infamous “Heil Hitler” salute used by Nazis.
Many took to social media to denounce Musk’s gesture. Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a historian specializing in fascism, described it as a “belligerent Nazi salute.” Critics also pointed out Musk’s past associations with far-right figures, questioning his intentions during the rally.
Defense from Allies and Organizations
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) dismissed the accusations, calling the gesture an “awkward display of enthusiasm.” Historian Aaron Astor supported the ADL’s stance, noting Musk’s social awkwardness and history of eccentric public behavior. Musk himself responded to the criticism on X, describing the Nazi comparisons as “tired attacks.”
Despite these defenses, neo-Nazi groups celebrated the gesture. Blood Tribe leader Christopher Pohlhaus posted a video of Musk’s speech, stating, “I don’t care if this was a mistake. I’m going to enjoy the tears over it.”
The Nazi Salute and Its Dark History
The Nazi salute, popularized during Adolf Hitler’s regime, involves an outstretched right arm with the palm down. While it originated from the Roman salute, it was widely adopted by fascist leaders like Benito Mussolini and later became compulsory in Nazi Germany.
In the United States, a similar gesture known as the Bellamy salute was used during the Pledge of Allegiance until World War II. The U.S. Congress replaced it in 1942 with the hand-over-heart salute to avoid associations with fascism.
Musk’s Past Controversies
This incident is not the first time Musk has faced accusations of supporting far-right ideologies. In 2023, Musk endorsed a post on X claiming Jews hate white people. The ADL condemned this as a toxic display of antisemitism.
Musk has also shown public support for far-right parties, including Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) and the UK’s Reform Party. Critics argue Musk’s political endorsements align with groups known for nationalist and xenophobic rhetoric.
Mixed Reactions and Future Implications
Jewish leaders, including Congressmember Jerry Nadler, condemned Musk’s actions as “abhorrent” and “antisemitic.” Meanwhile, Musk continues to deny wrongdoing, thanking the ADL for clarifying his gesture.
The debate over Musk’s intentions underscores the polarization in modern politics. Whether the incident was a misunderstanding or a deliberate act, its impact on Musk’s reputation and future remains uncertain.
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