Elon Musk's Inauguration Gesture and Far-Right Speech Ignite Global Backlash

The billionaire and Trump adviser faces accusations of fascist symbolism and alignment with extremists after controversial actions and remarks.

Elon Musk's straight-arm gesture during Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2025, has drawn widespread criticism, with many alleging it resembled a Nazi salute, a claim Musk denies.
Musk's comments to Germany's far-right AfD party, encouraging pride in German culture and dismissing guilt over Nazi history, have raised alarms among Jewish leaders and human rights advocates.
Critics argue Musk's actions and statements signal alignment with right-wing extremism, including his public trolling of detractors and controversial past remarks on social media.
During a CNN debate, columnist Catherine Rampell challenged a Trump ally to replicate Musk's gesture on live TV, highlighting the polarizing nature of the incident.
Musk, now leading a federal agency to reduce government spending, continues to face scrutiny over his influence in Trump's administration and perceived support for extremist ideologies.