Newly elected New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani became the centre of an internet debate after a video from his victory speech went viral. In the clip, Mamdani is seen raising his arm several times and waving to supporters. Some social media users claimed the movements resembled a Nazi salute, similar to the hand gesture billionaire CEO Elon Musk was accused of making earlier this year during the inauguration day ceremony.The internet was split, with some asking how a self-proclaimed socialist like Mamdani could make a gesture that goes against everything he stands for. Others argued that regardless of anyone’s politics, it’s still a sensitive gesture to make in front of a large crowd.Although it looked like he was just waving at the crowd, online posts focused on how the gesture could be read differently. Soon, people began comparing the clip to similar moments involving other public figures.A large part of the online conversation revolved around Musk’s 2025 inauguration-day controversy. During US President Donald Trump’s inauguration celebrations on January 20, 2025, Musk made a gesture that critics described as a “Nazi” or “fascist” salute. That moment stirred a row at the time about public behaviour, symbolism, and political intent. With the Mamdani clip circulating now, users revived those comparisons and questioned whether similar standards were being applied in both cases.The controversy also prompted some to revisit what the Nazi salute actually is. Historically, the salute involved extending the right arm forward at a slight upward angle with the hand straight, fingers together, and palm facing down. It was mandatory in Nazi Germany and often accompanied by phrases such as “Heil Hitler!” or “Sieg Heil!”.
