When billionaire Elon Musk took to the stage Monday during the inauguration, he made a gesture that included outstretching his right arm, reminiscent of a Nazi salute.
However, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), an organization tasked with fighting antisemitism, backed Musk’s “awkward” move, The Hill reported.
“This is a delicate moment. It’s a new day and yet so many are on edge. Our politics are inflamed, and social media only adds to the anxiety,” the ADL wrote on X. “It seems that @elonmusk made an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm, not a Nazi salute, but again, we appreciate that people are on edge.”
“In this moment, all sides should give one another a bit of grace, perhaps even the benefit of the doubt, and take a breath. This is a new beginning,” the ADL continued. “Let’s hope for healing and work toward unity in the months and years ahead.”
Musk thanked the crowd for their efforts to make Trump’s victory possible.
“My heart goes out to you,” Musk said. “And it’s thanks to you that the future of civilization is assured.”
Not everyone felt the same way about Musk’s gesture.
Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.) expressed his disapproval with a post on X Monday.
“I never imagined we would see the day when what appears to be a Heil Hitler salute would be made behind the Presidential seal.”
As the ADL defended Musk, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) said the organization is losing its credibility by doing so.
“Just to be clear, you are defending a Heil Hitler salute that was performed and repeated for emphasis and clarity,” Ocasio-Cortez posted on X. “People can officially stop listening to you as any sort of reputable source of information now. You work for them. Thank you for making that crystal clear to all.”
