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Elon Musk has pushed back against critics who accused him of performing a Nazi salute during President Trump’s inauguration, dismissing their claims as tired and unimaginative attacks.
The controversy erupted when the tech mogul, while addressing Trump supporters at Capital One Arena before the inaugural parade, placed his hand on his heart and extended his arm upward after expressing gratitude to the crowd.
Taking to X to address the accusations, the 55-year-old entrepreneur stated, “Frankly, they need better dirty tricks. The ‘everyone is Hitler’ attack is sooo tired.”
Is… is that not exactly what happened? The gesture was compared to a Nazi salute and Musk denied it? pic.twitter.com/StFSMNOdhq
— Christopher’s World 🌎💰📈 (@chrfactory) January 21, 2025
The Tesla CEO’s gesture sparked immediate backlash on social media platforms, though the Anti-Defamation League quickly stepped in to defend Musk, characterizing the movement as nothing more than an awkward display of enthusiasm. Musk responded to the ADL’s support with appreciation, posting “Thanks guys” accompanied by a crying laughing emoji.
The incident occurred after Musk’s emotional address to the audience where he declared, “Thank you for making it happen. Thank you, my heart goes out to you,” followed by the contested gesture.
The ADL elaborated on the situation, acknowledging the sensitive nature of Trump’s return to the White House. “It seems that [Musk] made an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm, not a Nazi salute,” the organization posted on X.
DO NOT BELIEVE THE MEDIA
The media is misleading you. Elon Musk never did a Nazi salute. Watch the full video: He simply gestured and said, “Thank you, my heart goes out to you.” pic.twitter.com/e3vBaLoVqx
— DogeDesigner (@cb_doge) January 20, 2025
Their statement continued, “Our politics are inflamed, and social media only adds to the anxiety. In this moment, all sides should give one another a bit of grace, perhaps even the benefit of the doubt, and take a breath.”
The organization concluded their response with a hopeful message: “This is a new beginning. Let’s hope for healing and work toward unity in the months and years ahead.”
The watchdog group emphasized that while many people feel particularly sensitive during this transition period, the situation called for measured interpretation rather than inflammatory accusations.