Former WDJT-TV meteorologist Sam Kuffel is no longer with the Milwaukee station following a social media outburst targeting X owner Elon Musk. The controversy stems from a gesture Musk made at a Trump inauguration event, which some interpreted as a Nazi salute. Kuffel's posts included strong criticisms of Musk, using profanity and sharing memes comparing the gesture to Nazi symbolism.
Kuffel's Instagram posts, which have since been deleted, reportedly slammed Musk, stating he performed the salute twice during the inauguration. The posts contained explicit language expressing her disapproval of those who support Musk. She also shared a meme further emphasizing her viewpoint.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported Kuffel's departure from the station, noting that her profile was removed from the WDJT-TV website. An internal memo confirmed her exit, and while the station acknowledged her departure, they declined further comment, citing it as a personnel matter.
The gesture in question occurred as Musk addressed the crowd, placing his hand over his heart before extending it outwards. While some accused him of fascist sympathies, others defended him, including the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The ADL described the gesture as "awkward" and called for unity and understanding. Netanyahu praised Musk as a "great friend of Israel" and highlighted his support for the country's security.
Podcaster Joe Rogan also defended Musk, criticizing those who labeled the gesture a Nazi salute as engaging in a "bulls--- game." He argued that such accusations diminish the seriousness of actual fascist displays.
This incident sparked wider debate about the interpretation of gestures and the role of social media in amplifying controversies. While Kuffel's criticisms were strongly worded, other prominent figures offered alternative perspectives, leading to a complex discussion about context and intent.
