Musk vs Booker: Nazi Salute Accusation
Musk Accuses Booker of Nazi Salute at California Democratic Event
Updated June 01, 2025
Elon Musk ignited controversy after accusing Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., of performing what he described as a Nazi salute. The alleged gesture occurred during a California Democratic Convention event Saturday night.
Booker concluded his speech at the convention by placing his hand on his heart and extending his arm, a motion that Musk and others likened to the nazi salute. The accusation quickly spread across social media, fueling heated debate.
Maya Krishna-Rogers, Booker’s spokesperson, refuted the claim. “Cory Booker was obviously just waving to the crowd,” krishna-Rogers said. “Anyone who claims his wave is the same as Elon Musk’s gesture is in bad faith. The differences between the two are obvious to anyone without an agenda.”
Musk began posting about the incident around 9 p.m. EDT Saturday, criticizing the media’s coverage. He later shared an image of prominent Democratic figures, including former President Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, with their arms extended, adding a sarcastic emoji.
The incident follows earlier criticism of Musk himself, who faced scrutiny in January for a gesture interpreted by some as a Nazi salute during an event for President Donald Trump’s inauguration. At the time, Musk dismissed the criticism as “dirty tricks.”
Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., also weighed in, accusing Democrats of hypocrisy. She argued that the media unfairly targeted Musk in January while downplaying similar actions by Democrats. “Neither Elon Musk or @CoryBooker are giving the Nazi salute,” stefanik posted on X. “Americans see thru this obvious and destructive double standard by the totally broken media and Democrat Party.” Musk responded, “they are such hypocrites,” seemingly referring to the media.
What’s next
The controversy surrounding the alleged Nazi salute continues to unfold on social media, with ongoing debate about the intent and interpretation of the gestures made by both Elon Musk and Cory Booker.The Anti-Defamation League has not yet commented on the allegations against Booker.