In a growing backlash against Elon Musk’s controversial actions, over 100 subreddits have collectively decided to block links to X (formerly Twitter). The move comes after Musk faced significant criticism for what many are calling a “Nazi salute” during a public appearance at a Trump rally in Washington D.C. While some have dismissed the gesture as an “awkward moment of enthusiasm,” others, including the moderators of popular subreddits, are not buying the explanation.
Subreddits like r/NBA (with 15 million members), r/TwoXChromosomes (14 million members), and r/NFL (12 million members) have taken a stand by banning links to X in protest. The growing number of subreddits refusing to allow X links is steadily rising, with over 100 reported bans as of today, and many more considering similar actions.
Musk, unsurprisingly, responded to the backlash by downplaying the controversy. In a post on X, he shrugged off the accusations, stating that the “everyone is Hitler” attack was “so tired.” Musk also took to social media to express frustration with Wikipedia’s decision to label his salute as a “Nazi salute,” calling for the platform to be defunded, even though Wikipedia operates on donations and is a non-profit. Wikipedia has since amended the language to refer to the gesture as an “alleged Nazi salute.”
The banning of X links across these subreddits is a community-driven initiative, not an official move by Reddit or the organizations associated with the subreddits. Moderators have taken it upon themselves to block X links as a way of protesting Musk’s actions and his influence. This reflects the power of community moderation, something Musk himself has championed on X in recent weeks.
The controversy surrounding Musk continues to unfold, and the decision by Reddit users to take action reflects a growing dissatisfaction with his behavior. As more subreddits consider joining the ban, it’s clear that Musk’s influence on the internet is facing significant pushback from online communities.
