Following the controversial gesture of Elon Musk at the inauguration, many users are deleting their X accounts in response.
Following Elon Musk’s controversial gesture at Donald Trump’s inauguration, many users are deciding to leave the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.
The event took place on January 20, 2025, when Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States.
Musk, who is the CEO of X and the head of the new Department of Government Efficiency, made headlines during the inauguration celebrations.
Controversial gesture of Elon Musk sparks outrage
During his speech at the inauguration, Musk made a gesture that sparked significant backlash.
He raised his right hand and placed it over his heart before thrusting it into the air.
Some observers compared this gesture to a Nazi salute, which has led to widespread criticism.
Many people felt that his actions were inappropriate and disrespectful.
The controversy surrounding Musk’s gesture has prompted a wave of users to delete their accounts on X.
Many individuals expressed their dissatisfaction publicly, stating they no longer want to be associated with the platform under Musk’s leadership.
Social media reactions
One user made their feelings clear by tweeting: I’m leaving Twitter as long as it’s under the ownership of Elon Musk.
I refuse to participate in the operation and success of this app.
Another user announced their departure: I will be locking this and all other accounts by midnight tonight.
I will still be streaming, but I will just be in other places, bye for now!
The second user said: He is disgraceful, what a pathetic excuse for a man.
The third user wrote: There’s a thin line between genius and insanity
Another user commented: That’s the final straw for me. I’m leaving Twitter.
Someone said: Elon Musk is a joke. Leaving Twitter forever, bye.
Companies also departing
The backlash is not limited to individual users. Some companies are also choosing to leave the platform.
For instance, the U.K.-based brewery Northern Monk announced they would no longer use X.
In their statement, they expressed concern about the discourse on the platform and emphasized their commitment to unity and inclusivity.
Despite the negative reactions, some users are defending Musk.
They argue that his gesture was possibly a strategic move to increase engagement on X.
Elon Musk has responded to the backlash on X.
He dismissed the criticism, saying, “Frankly, they need better dirty tricks. The ‘everyone is Hitler’ attack is sooo tired.”
His response highlights his frustration with the ongoing criticism and suggests he believes there are more important issues to address.