Tesla's chief executive expresses enthusiasm for Trump's plans and Mars ambitions, voicing displeasure over mysterious action
Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, made a gesture during Donald Trump's second inauguration on January 20, 2025, that sparked a wave of controversy and accusations of Nazi symbolism[1][3][5]. The brief video clip showed Musk lifting his right arm from chest level in a stiff, straight motion while saying, "My heart goes out to you," which many viewers interpreted as a resemblance to a Nazi salute.
The context behind this moment is that the footage was recorded during a factory tour coinciding with Trump's inauguration ceremony, not directly at the inauguration event itself[1]. Musk and his supporters have denied any Nazi salute intent, calling the accusations "media propaganda" and arguing that the movement was likely an awkward wave or misunderstood motion[1]. The Anti-Defamation League also described the gesture as "an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm, not a Nazi salute"[1].
However, critics and historians warned that regardless of intent, such a gesture could inadvertently encourage far-right groups and carry problematic connotations[1]. William Shatner, the Jewish actor from Star Trek, publicly defended Musk, emphasising that if Musk had intended any homage to Nazis, he would not associate with him, given Shatner's own experiences and heritage during Nazi Germany times. Shatner’s defence helped some supporters rally around Musk amid widespread social media debate[1].
This controversy fits within a broader pattern of Musk's increasingly contentious and provocative public behaviour, which has often drawn criticism and association with far-right or controversial political figures and ideas[2][4]. Musk's support for Trump during the 2016 U.S. Presidential election is noteworthy, as he contributed a significant amount of money and made personal appearances in support of the then-candidate[6].
Meanwhile, the potential benefits of Trump's presidency for Musk's space company, SpaceX, are not to be underestimated. Trump's inaugural address mentioned plans to bring the American flag to Mars, which aligns with SpaceX's ambitions[4]. Musk has previously expressed gratitude to Trump supporters and even responded to Trump's Mars plans with a thumbs up[4].
However, Musk's relationship with Trump has not been without controversy. He withdrew from advisory boards due to Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement[4]. The controversy surrounding Musk's gesture at the inauguration has added another layer to this complex relationship.
In summary, the gesture was perceived as controversial because it visually resembled a Nazi salute, but Musk and his defenders reject that interpretation, framing it as taken out of context and not intended as such[1][3]. The controversy highlights the ongoing debate about the appropriateness of certain gestures in public life and the potential for misinterpretation in the digital age.
References: 1. CNN 2. The Guardian 3. The New York Times 4. The Verge 5. Bloomberg 6. Politico
- Amidst growing controversies surrounding Elon Musk's public behavior, his support for politics and business alliances with controversial figures, the CEO of SpaceX and Tesla found himself embroiled in another debate over a perceived controversial gesture during Donald Trump's second inauguration.
- Despite accusations of Nazi symbolism and claims of a misinterpreted gesture, the potential benefits of Trump's presidency, particularly for Musk's space company SpaceX, remain an important factor in their complex relationship.
- The controversy surrounding Musk's gesture at the inauguration underscores the critical role of technology in disseminating information, with media outlets reporting on the incident, and social platforms fueling widespread debate on the appropriateness of public gestures in today's digital age.
