The Tesla billionaire has responded to the backlash over his controversial hand gesture at Trump's inauguration rally, calling the criticisms 'dirty tricks' to discredit him.
- January 22, 2025
AceShowbiz - Elon Musk has strongly rebutted accusations that he made a "Nazi salute" during a speech at Donald Trump's inauguration rally, following a wave of criticism from both the public and media.
The Tesla and X (formerly Twitter) CEO's gesture, which some observers interpreted as a stiff-armed Roman-style salute, drew significant backlash, leading Musk to defend himself against what he described as "dirty tricks" aimed at discrediting him. "The 'everyone is Hitler' attack is sooo tired," he responded to the outcry.
The controversy began when Musk, speaking at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., during an event with Trump's supporters. During his address, Musk placed his hand over his chest before raising it stiffly toward the sky with his palm down.
Later, turning his back to the audience, Musk repeated the same movement while facing an American flag displayed behind him. "It is thanks to you that the future of civilization is assured," he told the assembled crowd.
Amid the criticism, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), an organization dedicated to combating antisemitism and bigotry, issued a more cautious response, suggesting that the gesture was likely not intended as a Nazi salute but rather a moment of awkward enthusiasm.
On X, the ADL wrote, "This is a delicate moment. It's a new day and yet so many are on edge. Our politics are inflamed, and social media only adds to the anxiety. It seems that Elon Musk made an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm, not a Nazi salute, but again, we appreciate that people are on edge."
Grateful for the support, Musk replied, "Thanks guys," along with a laughing-crying emoji.
The ADL's statement continued with a call for greater understanding and restraint, emphasizing the importance of offering "one another a bit of grace" in such a tense political climate. "In this moment, all sides should give one another a bit of grace, perhaps even the benefit of the doubt, and take a breath. This is a new beginning. Let's hope for healing and work toward unity in the months and years ahead."
