
Elon Musk signaled Wednesday that he may take legal action against Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz following comments made during an appearance on MSNBC. Walz, who ran as Kamala Harris’ vice presidential pick in the 2024 election, revived a false claim that Musk performed a Nazi salute, prompting backlash and potential legal consequences.
The controversy erupted after Walz appeared on “The Rachel Maddow Show,” where he declared that the country had just spent “three days debating” whether Musk made the gesture. “Of course he did,” Walz stated, repeating a claim that had already been dismissed by several public figures, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Elon Musk says that he thinks he will sue Tim Walz for defaming him for when Walz falsely said Musk did “a N*zi salute.” pic.twitter.com/yNbkQlkHOF
— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) January 29, 2025
Musk’s response came after filmmaker Robby Starbuck shared a video of Walz’s remarks on X, writing that he hoped the billionaire would sue. Musk replied, “I think I will,” and later called Walz “creepy” while mocking him with a clown emoji.
The accusation stems from an event at President Donald Trump’s inauguration rally, where Musk briefly tapped his chest and extended his right arm. Left-wing critics immediately seized on the image, attempting to paint it as a Nazi salute. However, Netanyahu and other figures rejected the claim as baseless, and Musk himself has remained firm in denying the characterization.
Elon Musk is going to sue Creepy Tim Walz for saying Elon definitely gave a Nazi salute.
Tampon Tim is an unbelievable moron. pic.twitter.com/4R6Sw8Blwl
— Juanita Broaddrick (@atensnut) January 30, 2025
Musk, who spent $277 million backing Republicans in 2024, has been a frequent target of Democratic politicians and media outlets. His growing influence in conservative politics has drawn intense scrutiny, particularly after his acquisition of X. Walz, still bitter from his election loss, appears determined to keep Musk at the center of controversy.
🚨🚨 Elon Musk said today that he will be suing disgraced Tim Walz after he falsely claimed that the billionaire did a 'Nazi salute'. pic.twitter.com/LiSPYM378R
— JOSH DUNLAP (@JDunlap1974) January 30, 2025
While Musk has yet to file an official lawsuit, Walz and MSNBC have not responded to questions regarding potential legal action. Meanwhile, Bloomberg estimates Musk’s net worth at $428 billion, making him the richest person in the world.