Are those Nazi salutes? MAGA links Elon Musk’s infamous gesture to Trump nemesis
Conservative critics and online activists are comparing a photo of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Bernie Sanders, and Zohran Mamdani at a rally in Queens, sparking controversy. The photo was shot after the three progressive luminaries rallied in New York City to spur voters before the November 4 election. The event promoted progressive policies including affordable housing, rent freezes, and universal child care, but the aftermath has focused on how gestures and imagery are received in a polarized political context.
In his rally speech, Mamdani said that establishing a coalition “with room for every New Yorker” was essential to movement politics. All three stood together waving to supporters in his post-rally shot on social media. What started as a rally image became speculation and criticism. Trump followers and allies grabbed on the photo and asked if Ocasio-Cortez and Mamdani’s move resembled a Nazi salute. Their argument focused on the wave, citing Elon Musk’s earlier issue over a similar outside arm gesture that some internet users compared to Nazi imagery.
Musk claimed his motion was an indication of joy, but the Anti-Defamation League found it awkward and not intended. When the gesture was made, Ocasio-Cortez termed the ADL’s response inadequate. Senator Ted Cruz commented, “Are those Nazi salutes?” Musk posted, “Sure looks like it.” This exchange generated heated online debate on Nazi salutes, political rally hand gestures, and how images may be weaponized in partisan debates.
The case illustrates a cultural period where every political gesture is analyzed for hidden meaning. Critics say an innocent wave can be a coded salute in another, especially when shared by opponents wanting to attach harmful or sensational storylines. Defenders of progressive figures say the wave was normal to a cheering crowd, but perception matters in today’s volatile environment.
The situation offers Mamdani’s campaign both chance and challenge. The photo shows his support for progressives like Ocasio-Cortez and Sanders. Comparing him to Nazi images helps conservatives paint him and his allies as extreme, radical, or out of touch. Political campaigns are realizing that optics—gestures, attitudes, image timing—can affect public perception as much as legislation.
The show also questions how social media and digital platforms amplify small occurrences. A wave captured at the appropriate perspective, labeled, or interpreted might generate a viral story to reinforce factions. Political iconography has become a battleground, as high-profile figures are increasingly regarded through symbolism and accusation, whether the gesture was innocent or misconstrued.
This confrontation shows how campaigns must now manage their message and movement’s image. Progressives like Mamdani must demonstrate authenticity and connectedness to grassroots voters while being vigilant about opponents redefining every moment. Conservative critics say it shows a readiness to use subtle visual clues to fuel ideological confrontations.
As the New York City mayoral contest continues and national divisiveness persists, this dispute may illustrate how gestures, media framing, and online amplification interact. The photo’s wave may have lasting importance. However, it has opened another battleground in the metaphorical culture warfare, reminding public figures that even a wave can have unanticipated weight.
Sources
Yahoo News
Politico
