Elon Musk has criticized Wikipedia’s founders following the site’s documentation of accusations against him since Donald Trump’s inauguration.
The Tesla CEO was present at Donald Trump’s second inauguration on January 20, where his actions on stage sparked significant controversy. He was accused of performing a ‘nazi salute’ twice—once to the crowd in front and once to those behind him. Watch the moment here:
On stage, Musk stated: “Thank you for making it happen. Thank you, my heart goes out to you.”
Musk has denied any intention of making a Nazi salute, with some supporters claiming he was performing a Roman salute or expressing his gratitude to the crowd.
Wikipedia has updated Musk’s page to describe the incident, noting those who have criticized it, which has displeased Musk.
The page describes: “Musk thumped his right hand over his heart, fingers spread wide, and then extended his right arm out, emphatically, at an upward angle, palm down and fingers together.”
“He then repeated the gesture to the crowd on his back. As he finished the gestures, he said to the crowd, ‘My heart goes out to you’.”
The gesture has been perceived as a Nazi salute or Roman salute by various individuals, including politicians Yolanda Díaz, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Jerry Nadler, as well as fascism historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat.
Musk reacted by criticizing Wikipedia’s co-founders Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger, asserting that the platform had become akin to ‘legacy media’.
He tweeted: “Since legacy media propaganda is considered a ‘valid’ source by Wikipedia, it naturally simply becomes an extension of legacy media propaganda!”
In another tweet, Musk suggested: “Defund Wikipedia until balance is restored.”
Jimmy Wales responded to Musk’s criticism.
He tweeted: “I think Elon is unhappy that Wikipedia is not for sale. I hope his campaign to defund us results in lots of donations from people who care about the truth.”
“If Elon wanted to help, he’d be encouraging kind and thoughtful intellectual people he agrees with to engage.”
Despite the allegations, the Anti-Defamation League has defended Musk.
In a Twitter statement, they said: “It seems that [Musk] made an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm, not a Nazi salute, but again, we appreciate that people are on edge.”