AOC criticizes ADL for justifying Elon Musk's "awkward gesture": "You're defending a Nazi salute."

On Monday, Elon Musk was defended by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) for a "Heil Hitler salute," which was attacked by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y.

At the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., Musk was a keynote speaker at President Trump's inauguration, delivering an animated speech to the audience.

"This was a pivotal moment in human history, and I want to express my gratitude for making it happen. Thank you from the bottom of my heart," Musk said to the cheering MAGA crowd. He raised his hand in a gesture of appreciation before turning to the crowd.

The ADL later wrote that it believed Musk's gesture was just an enthusiastic one, despite several news outlets and commentators quickly accusing him of giving a Nazi salute.

The ADL wrote that this is a delicate moment, as it is a new day and many are on edge. Politics are inflamed, and social media only adds to the anxiety. Although @elonmusk made an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm, not a Nazi salute, people are still on edge. In this moment, all sides should give one another a bit of grace and take a breath. This is a new beginning, and the ADL hopes for healing and unity in the months and years ahead.

The ADL aims to put an end to the disparagement of the Jewish community and ensure equal treatment for all individuals.

Ocasio-Cortez disputed the statement and accused the organization of supporting a Nazi salute.

Ocasio-Cortez wrote: "To clarify, you are defending a Heil Hitler salute that was performed and repeated for emphasis and clarity. As a result, people can now officially stop listening to you as a reputable source of information. You work for them. Thank you for making that clear."

Planet Chronicle Digital reached out to the ADL for a comment.

In 2023, ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt criticized Ocasio-Cortez and other "Squad" House members for their extreme positions on the Israel-Gaza war.

Greenblatt stated to Planet Chronicle Digital that Rashida Tlaib has been marginalized in her own district and like AOC, she is no longer seen in the media. Greenblatt believes that these individuals with their radical ideas have marginalized themselves.

"Greenblatt stated, "In my opinion, AOC doesn't have a significant impact. She is one of the 430-something individuals, like Tlaib or Ilhan Omar, and we don't need to give them any more influence because their influence has decreased and weakened over the past few years as their positions have become more radical, and they have reduced their ability to reach a wider audience." Greenblatt added, "There are extreme voices on both sides. Let's keep them on the fringe where they belong.""

Planet Chronicle' David Spector contributed to this report.