Did Mamdani give a 'Nazi salute' at inauguration? MAGA supporters compare it to Elon Musk's gesture

Some social media users compared Zohran Mamdani's gesture to a similar one made by Elon Musk at an inauguration rally for President Donald Trump.

Published on: Jan 2, 2026, 06:54:00 IST

By Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan

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Zohran Mamdani was inaugurated as mayor of New York City on Thursday. During his swearing-in ceremony, the 34-year-old made a brief hand gesture while speaking that some MAGA supporters claimed resembled a Nazi salute. Clips circulating on social media show Mamdani extending his right arm outward while addressing the crowd.

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani speaks after he was ceremonially sworn in as New York City's 112th mayor at City Hall by Sen. Bernie Sanders (VT-I) on January 01, 2026 in New York City. (Getty Images via AFP)

One person asked, "So it’s ok when Mamdani does the Nazi salute now?"

Another wrote, "I am shaking. Zohran Mamdani just did a Nazi Salute. Rules are rules. Cancel him."

Some social media users compared Mamdani's gesture to a similar one made by Elon Musk at an inauguration rally for President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025. Musk's action, which also involved extending his arm outward twice during a speech, was widely criticized at the time as resembling a Nazi salute.

"Zohran Mamdani just did the EXACT SAME gesture as Elon Musk. When Elon does it, it's a Nazi salute," one person wrote on X.

Another commented, “Do you see the Nazi salute Mamdani just gave? Or is it only a Nazi salute when Elon does it, but when Mamdani does it, it’s just a “gesture of love”?”

Also Read: Who is Lillian Bonsignore? Zohran Mamdani, Elon Musk spar over FDNY chief pick

Supporters push back

Others pushed back strongly against the accusation, describing Mamdani’s movement as an enthusiastic wave commonly used during speeches.

Responding to questions about the incident, Grok, X’s AI assistant, stated, "The gesture in the video from Mayor Mamdani's inauguration seems to be a raised fist for emphasis, common in speeches for solidarity or enthusiasm. It's not a traditional Nazi salute (straight arm, palm down). Similar arm waves have fueled past debates, like with Elon Musk in 2025. Multiple news outlets report no such intent in his address."

As of now, Mamdani has not commented publicly on the claims.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan
Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan leads the US Desk at Hindustan Times, where she writes, strategises coverage, and ensures quality across all beats. With eight years of experience covering US news for leading publications, she has reported extensively on politics, entertainment, and sports. Vaishnavi holds a graduate degree in English, Journalism, and Psychology, and completed her PG Diploma in Broadcast Journalism from the Manorama School of Communication, where she was awarded the prestigious Mammen Mappillai Award for Best Outgoing Student. She began her career at the International Business Times (US Edition), covering US breaking news, politics, and entertainment. She later joined Opoyi, reporting across all beats, including US sports and trending stories. Prior to Hindustan Times, she served as World Lead at Times Now News, covering comprehensive world news and events. Vaishnavi has expertise in politics, entertainment, and breaking news, and enjoys tackling stories across a wide range of topics. Beyond the newsroom, she is an avid traveller, a foodie who loves exploring new restaurants, and a pop culture enthusiast who enjoys watching latest shows and films. She also enjoys engaging in debates and discussions on Reddit.Read More

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