Social media had one question to ask after Elon Musk hit the stage at the Capitol One Arena in Washington D.C. Monday: What was that salute?
While celebrating President Donald Trump’s inauguration at a post-ceremony rally, Musk gave a brief speech where he thanked the crowd for their support and said: “Elections come and go, some are important and some are not, but this one really mattered and I just want to say thank you for making it happen.”
He then proceeded to hit what appeared to be not one, but two salutes that many folks online have likened to the Nazi or Roman salute.
“Did Elon Musk just hit the roman salute at his inauguration speech?” Twitch streamer Hasan Piker posted on X. “Elon Musk just did a Nazi salute at the Capitol One Arena in Washington,” wrote another. “Elon just did the Nazi salute on TV so that’s where we’re at right now,” added another user.
The Roman salute is a sign of power and authority that, in modern times, is often considered a symbol of fascism.
CNN anchor Erin Burnett also called out the gesture on air, saying, “Standing ovation for Elon Musk. By far the biggest reception of the day. You saw him come out with that odd-looking salute.”

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