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4mo ago

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 appeared at the AfD campaign launch via video link on Saturday.
Bill Gates speaks onstage at an event at the Paris Theater on September 26, 2024 in New York City.
Bill Gates sounded off about his fellow billionaire Elon Musk's political ambitions in interviews over the weekend.
Elon Musk waves and speaks live via a video transmission during a speech by Alice Weidel, chancellor candidate of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) political party, at the AfD election campaign launch rally on Jan. 25, 2025 in Halle, Germany.

Overview

  • 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.