Musk Responds to Backlash Over Gesture at Trump Rally
Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and a close ally of President Donald Trump, has sparked outrage with a gesture made during a speech at Trump’s inauguration rally. Musk placed his right hand over his heart before extending his arm forward, an action that many have likened to a Nazi salute.
The gesture occurred at the Capital One Arena in Washington, DC, during celebrations for Trump’s swearing-in as the 47th president. Musk thanked the crowd, stating, “It is thanks to you that the future of civilization is assured,” before repeating the gesture for those behind him.
Social Media Backlash
Accusations of a Nazi Salute
Social media users and historians quickly criticized Musk’s actions. Many on X, the social media platform owned by Musk, called the gesture a “sieg heil,” referencing the Nazi salute.
- Claire Aubin, a historian specializing in Nazism in the US, stated: “My professional opinion is that you’re all right, you should believe your eyes.”
- Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a history professor at NYU, described the gesture as “a very belligerent Nazi salute.”
Defenders Speak Out
While many criticized Musk, others defended him. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) tweeted: “It seems that Elon Musk made an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm, not a Nazi salute.”
Andrea Stroppa, a Musk confidant, said the gesture was a way for Musk, who has autism, to express his feelings. “That is exactly what he communicated into the microphone. ELON DISLIKES EXTREMISTS!” Stroppa later deleted his original post, which reportedly described the act as a “Roman salute.”
Musk’s Response
In response to the backlash, Musk dismissed the accusations on X, writing: “Frankly, they need better dirty tricks. The ‘everyone is Hitler’ attack is sooo tired.”
This is not the first time Musk has faced criticism over his political leanings. He has openly supported right-wing parties, including Germany’s far-right AfD and Britain’s Reform UK.
Historical Context of the Gesture
Roman Salute Origins
The extended-arm gesture, known as the Roman salute, was originally used in Fascist Italy under Benito Mussolini before being adopted by Adolf Hitler in Nazi Germany.
Andrea Stroppa’s Explanation
Stroppa explained that Musk’s gesture was meant to symbolize offering his heart to the audience, emphasizing that it was not a political statement.
Musk’s Role in Trump Administration
Musk has been tapped to co-lead Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency, solidifying his close ties with the new administration. This political alignment has only added fuel to the controversy surrounding Musk’s actions at the rally.
External Link:
Read more about Elon Musk’s controversial rally gesture on BBC News
Internal Link:
For insights into Musk’s business ventures, visit Kenkou Land’s business section.
