Elon Musk has responded to claims that he gave a “Nazi-style” salute during Donald Trump’s inauguration.
On January 20, 2025, Musk joined a crowd of lawmakers and celebrities in Washington to show support for Trump after he took the oath as the 47th President of the United States. After Trump’s speech, which stirred strong reactions, Musk found himself at the center of controversy.
During the event, Musk was seen making several gestures that many criticized as “fascist.” Some viewers believed that Musk gave a “Nazi salute” while attending the inauguration, which raised concern.
As he spoke about the possibility of planting an American flag on Mars, Musk seemed excited and engaged with the crowd. Then, while praising the audience for their support in helping Trump win over Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, Musk appeared to pound his chest. Shortly after, he raised his right arm sharply toward the sky, which some interpreted as a salute.
He then turned away from the crowd and repeated the motion, this time facing a U.S. flag above the stage.
Musk then addressed the supporters, saying: “My heart goes out to you. It is thanks to you that the future of civilisation is assured.”
During live coverage, CNN anchor Erin Burnett remarked that Musk received a standing ovation. She also noted his “odd-looking salute.” Kasie Hunt, another CNN reporter, compared the gesture to things seen in history, calling it “not something you typically see at American rallies.”
Social media discussions about Musk’s actions quickly spread, particularly on X, his own platform. Many people on the platform compared the gesture to a Nazi salute, and some viewers were shocked.
One user posted: “Elon Musk just did a Nazi salute on national television.” Other comments echoed similar thoughts, questioning his actions.
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has defined a Nazi salute as “raising an outstretched right arm with the palm down.”