In brief
Critics and defenders voice their opinions on social media, while Musk dismisses the backlash.
Elon Musk has landed in hot water over a controversial arm gesture he made during a speech at a rally celebrating Donald Trump's inauguration. While thanking the crowd for their support, Musk placed his right hand over his heart and then extended the same arm forward, drawing immediate criticism online. Many users on X, the platform he owns, equated the action to a Nazi salute. In response to the backlash, Musk took to X and remarked, "Frankly, they need better dirty tricks. The 'everyone is Hitler' attack is sooo tired." During the rally held at the Capital One Arena in Washington D.C., he also expressed gratitude, stating, "My heart goes out to you. It is thanks to you that the future of civilization is assured." Historians and academics quickly voiced their concerns, with Claire Aubin labeling the gesture a "sieg heil" salute. Similarly, Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a history professor, confirmed that it resembled a Nazi salute. Adding to the controversy, Andrea Stroppa, a known associate of Musk, shared a clip of the gesture with a caption reminiscent of historical fascist salutes, although he later deleted the post and defended Musk, suggesting the gesture stemmed from Musk's autism, expressing his emotions. Musk's political affiliations have recently leaned more rightward, prompting mixed reactions about his influence and intentions, although the Anti-Defamation League suggested that the gesture was merely an awkward moment, not a deliberate reference. Regardless, Musk remains a supporter and close ally of Donald Trump, recently given a role to co-lead the proposed "Department of Government Efficiency."
