Musk faces allegations over controversial gesture at Trump inauguration celebration

Tuesday 21 January 2025 - 08:05

Tech billionaire Elon Musk has sparked controversy after making consecutive hand gestures during a speech celebrating Donald Trump's inauguration as the 47th President of the United States. The gestures, perceived by some as resembling a Nazi salute, have fueled widespread debate online.

During his speech at the Capital One Arena in Washington, DC, Musk described the November 4 election as a historic turning point, stating, “This was no ordinary victory. This one truly mattered. Thank you for making it happen!” He thumped his chest with his right hand before extending his arm upward with his palm facing downward, fingers together. Musk repeated the motion while addressing the crowd behind him.

Musk, now leading the newly created Department of Government Efficiency in Trump’s administration, quickly drew criticism, with some accusing him of mimicking the infamous salute associated with Adolf Hitler. Observers online, including British commentator Owen Jones, described the gesture as uncomfortably similar to a Nazi salute. The criticism extended internationally, with an Israeli media outlet referring to Musk’s gesture as a "Roman salute" linked to fascist movements.

Defense of Musk

Supporters, including the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), defended Musk, calling the gesture an "awkward expression of enthusiasm" rather than a deliberate salute. The organization urged the public to exercise understanding, describing the moment as an opportunity for unity and reconciliation.

Musk, whose political alignment has recently shifted to the right, faced further scrutiny earlier this month after hosting Alice Weidel, leader of Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany party, on his platform. Despite the controversy, Musk has not publicly commented on the allegations.