Public Reaction
's salute at 's inauguration was widely interpreted as a "" gesture, prompting online outrage and comparisons to Nazi salutes.
Critics and commentators on social media, including Democratic strategist Sawyer Hackett and British journalist , accused Musk of making a Nazi salute, while some defended it as an emotional gesture.
Political Context
Musk, a significant supporter of Trump's 2024 campaign, was praised by Trump during the inauguration for his contributions, including comments on voting technology.
The gesture occurred amidst Musk's enthusiastic remarks about the future of civilization and space exploration, contrasting with the controversy over the salute.