Elon Musk’s Gesture Sparks Backlash at Trump Inauguration
AFP/APP
Los Angeles: Tech entrepreneur Elon Musk found himself at the center of controversy on Monday after a gesture he made during Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 47th President of the United States ignited a wave of criticism and polarized public opinion.
Musk, a vocal supporter of Trump’s administration, praised the November election results as “historic” during his address at the event. However, a brief moment during his speech—interpreted by some as a Nazi-style salute—has sparked intense online backlash and reignited debates about the public responsibilities of influential figures.
Mixed Interpretations Spark Outrage
The gesture, captured on live broadcasts and social media, was widely debated, with some commentators labeling it as resembling the “Roman salute” historically linked to fascist regimes. British journalist Owen Jones referred to the moment as “deeply troubling,” while Israel’s Haaretz described it as a controversial echo of authoritarian symbolism.
However, others argued that the reaction was overblown. “It appeared to be an awkward, enthusiastic motion taken out of context,” said a statement from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which urged observers to exercise restraint before passing judgment.
Musk’s Political Shift Under Scrutiny
The incident comes at a time when Musk’s evolving political leanings have drawn attention. Once regarded as a moderate innovator, Musk has recently aligned with conservative causes, endorsing Trump and engaging with far-right European figures, including Alice Weidel of Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.
Critics view these moves as evidence of a broader ideological shift, while supporters hail Musk’s embrace of free speech and his criticism of perceived political correctness.
Public Reaction Divided
The controversy highlights growing tensions in the digital age, where every gesture or comment by public figures is scrutinized under a global spotlight. While some condemn Musk’s actions as indicative of deeper political affiliations, others see the backlash as an example of overreach in a hyper-connected world.
As the debate unfolds, Musk and his companies have yet to issue a formal response. The incident underscores the complex dynamics between technology leaders, political discourse, and public perception, further fueling discussions about the responsibilities of high-profile figures in shaping societal narratives.
