During the parade inaugurating the presidency of Donald Trump Elon Musk amazed the audience. The billionaire first danced, then gave a speech, and yet performed a “strange, disturbing gesture” resembling a Roman salute. The speech sparked controversy and sparked a wave of comments.
On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States during a ceremony in the Capitol. In his inaugural speech, he announced a series of changes – from closing the confederate border to strengthening safety policy and increased spending on the military.
On that day, in addition to the authoritative inauguration of Trump throughout Washington, there were lofty events, including the military parade on which Elon Musk besides appeared. Speaking in the Washington sports hall Capital 1 Arena, he thanked those gathered for their commitment.
– any choices are, you know, crucial and any aren't. But it was an election that truly mattered. And I want to thank you for your contribution," said Musk, gaining a immense applause from the audience.
"A unusual gesture" by Elon Musk
Elon Musk stressed during the speech that thanks to Trump voters the future of civilization is assured. – Thanks to you we will have safe cities, yet safe borders, sensible spending, basic things and take DOGE to Mars – said the billionaire.
However, the biggest stir among the audience was the motion Musk made during the speech. He raised his hand twice in a way that resembles the... Roman salute – utilized by fascists and Nazis. A CNN writer commenting on the live performance described this as a ‘strange and disturbing’ move.
Elona Muska's motion sparked a wave of comments online. Paweł Żuchowski, correspondent for RMF FM, noted that the assessment of the motion depends on the viewer's perspective. "Was that intentional or random? Let everyone justice for themselves what they see," he wrote on X.
Donald Trump president of the United States
Donald Trump became the 47th president of the United States on Monday January 20. His inauguration was attended, among others, by outgoing president Joe Biden and Vice president Kamala Harris and many prominent guests.
Donald Trump's oath took place in the Capitol rotunda, which was due to unfavorable weather in Washington, D.C. and, as experts say, safety considerations.
Participants included outgoing president Joe Biden, Vice president Kamala Harris, as well as erstwhile Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton. At the ceremony there were besides invited millionaires and celebrities specified as Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg.
