Statement from The Simon Wiesenthal Center on Elon Musk's 2025 Inauguration Salute

Elon Musk has become a prominent figure on the global stage, but his actions today at PresidentTrump’s inauguration have raised serious concerns. His unexpected double salute, which resembled gestures associated with troubling historical connotations, is challenging tounderstand—especially as he has recently engaged with Germany’s domestic politics by seemingly supporting the AfD party, known for its far-right elements.

The Nazi salute, officially known as the “Hitler salute,” originated in Nazi Germany as a gesture ofloyalty and obedience to Adolf Hitler and the ideals of the National Socialist Party. The Nazi salute was inspired by the ancient Roman salute, a gesture thought to symbolize strength and unityin classical antiquity.

Now, serving as a key member of the Trump administration, Mr. Musk has significant responsibilitiesand a new international platform. It would be appropriate for him to clarify or apologize for today’s gesture and focus his energy on tackling the critical challenges ahead.

For further information, please email Erik Simon at esimon@wiesenthal.com, Deborah Camiel at dcamiel@wiesenthal.com, Michele Alkin at malkin@wiesenthal.com, join the Center on Facebook, or follow @simonwiesenthal for news updates sent directly to your Twitter feed.

The Simon Wiesenthal Center is an international Jewish human rights organization. It holds consultative status atthe United Nations, UNESCO, the OSCE, the Council of Europe, the OAS, and the Latin American Parliament (PARLATINO).