Elon Musk sparks controversy with rally gesture amid Trump’s inauguration

• Tech billionaire Elon Musk has stirred controversy.
• He made a gesture during President Donald Trump inauguration rally.
• Musk donated $200 million to Trump’s re-election campaign.

Tech billionaire Elon Musk has stirred controversy following a gesture he made during a rally in Washington celebrating President Donald Trump’s second-term inauguration. Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, appeared on stage at the Capital One Arena, thanking supporters of the newly inaugurated president.

Reports suggest Musk donated approximately $200 million to Trump’s re-election campaign and has been appointed head of the new Department for Government Efficiency. Though not officially part of the government, the advisory group aims to propose significant budget cuts and streamline bureaucratic processes, aligning with Musk’s vision for greater efficiency in public administration.

During his speech, Musk tapped the left side of his chest with his right hand and extended his arm with an open palm. Some observers, including historian Claire Aubin, described the gesture as a “sieg heil” on X, while fascism expert Ruth Ben-Ghiat called it “a very belligerent” Nazi salute.

Democratic Congressman Jimmy Gomez reacted swiftly, stating, “Well, that didn’t take long.” However, the Anti-Defamation League defended Musk, suggesting it was an enthusiastic gesture rather than a Nazi reference.

Supporters claim Musk’s gesture was meant as a joke, while critics, including Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, condemned the ADL’s defense, highlighting the broader implications of his actions.