Elon Musk drags Taylor Swift into ‘Nazi salute’ controversy after inauguration gesture

Elon Musk’s gestures at Trump’s 2025 inauguration sparked backlash, now drawing Taylor Swift into the controversy.

Musk’s hand movements, which some critics have likened to a Nazi salute, have generated intense online discussions. In response to the allegations, Musk dismissed the criticism on his platform X (formerly Twitter), calling the accusations “tired” and dismissing them as part of “dirty tricks.”

In an attempt to deflect the controversy, Musk has shared posts on X featuring images and videos of other politicians and public figures, including Swift, with their arms raised in similar positions. Swift, who has never publicly commented on Musk, found herself linked to the controversy despite no direct involvement. Musk previously made headlines in September 2024 after making a bizarre and unsolicited comment on Swift’s endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris, suggesting he would offer her a child—an exchange many social media users found "creepy."

The Anti-Defamation League, which works to combat antisemitism and other forms of bias, has commented on Musk’s gestures, stating that they were “awkward” but made “in a moment of enthusiasm.” Despite the fallout, Musk has shrugged off the criticisms, while Swift’s name continues to surface in the ongoing debate, further fueling public interest in the unusual incident.