CNN anchors Erin Burnett and Kasie Hunt noted the oddity of the gesture, pointing out that it was unusual for American political rallies. Social media exploded with mixed reactions. Some viewers interpreted it as a reference to fascist imagery, drawing parallels to Adolf Hitler’s Nazi salute, while others called it a "Roman salute."
However, there were defenders who argued that Musk's gesture was an awkward, enthusiastic display rather than a deliberate act of political symbolism. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) weighed in, suggesting Musk's action was more about excitement than a reference to Nazi ideology. Some commentators even suggested Musk’s gesture might have been influenced by his disclosure that he has Asperger’s syndrome, a condition that can sometimes lead to social awkwardness.
The incident reignited broader discussions about Musk’s controversial stance on political issues, particularly his connections to far-right ideologies and his past actions on his platform, X. Political figures like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticized the ADL for downplaying the incident, while Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene took issue with PBS’s coverage, accusing the network of spreading biased narratives.
Despite the backlash, Musk did not address the controversy directly. Instead, he responded with dismissive comments on social media, sharing the rally clip and expressing excitement about the future. The episode reflects ongoing tensions over Musk's public persona and political affiliations, with differing opinions on the meaning of his actions and the broader implications for his influence.
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