Official statements or press releases from the Anti-Defamation League

Elon Musk Defends 'Awkward' Gesture at Trump's Inauguration Amid Nazi Salute Accusations

Jan 21, 2025, 12:05 PM

Billionaire tech entrepreneur Elon Musk sparked controversy on January 20, 2025, after making a hand gesture during a speech at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., at an event celebrating US President Donald Trump's inauguration. The owner of SpaceX, Tesla, and social media platform X placed his right hand over his heart before extending it outward, a gesture some observers likened to a Nazi salute or fascist movement. The incident raised eyebrows and generated widespread attention across social media and international media outlets. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) defended Musk, with CEO Jonathan Greenblatt stating that the gesture was "not a Nazi salute" but "an awkward moment of enthusiasm," urging unity as the debate spread online. Musk responded to the allegations on X, dismissing the criticism by saying, "Frankly, they need better dirty tricks. The 'everyone is Hitler' attack is so tired." Despite the ADL's clarification, the gesture continued to draw scrutiny globally, highlighting the sensitivity surrounding public figures' actions and the potential for gestures to be misinterpreted.