At the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in the United States, a gesture by Steve Bannon has sparked controversy, leading to the withdrawal of French far-right leader Jordan Bardella from the event. Bannon, a prominent figure in American conservative circles, concluded his speech with an arm gesture reminiscent of both Nazi and Roman salutes. This display, alongside similar actions by Elon Musk, has drawn criticism and historical comparisons due to its fascist connotations.
During his speech at CPAC, Bannon extended his right arm at an angle with his palm pointing downward, a gesture that some have compared to the infamous Nazi salute. The Anti-Defamation League defines this salute as raising an outstretched right arm with the palm down. Historians note that the Roman salute was originally adopted by Italian fascist leader Benito Mussolini in the 1920s and later by Adolf Hitler's Nazi party. Bannon's gesture prompted cheers from the audience, who also voiced support for former President Donald Trump with chants of "We want Trump."
Elon Musk, another high-profile figure, made a similarly controversial gesture at the US president's second inauguration in January and brandished a chainsaw at CPAC, boasting about federal job cuts. These actions have been characterized as having a fascist overtone.
Bardella, leader of France's National Rally party, canceled his planned speech at CPAC following Bannon's gesture. He expressed his decision in a statement:
"Yesterday, while I was not present in the room, one of the speakers out of provocation allowed himself a gesture alluding to Nazi ideology. I therefore took the immediate decision to cancel my speech that had been scheduled this afternoon." – Jordan Bardella
Bannon's speech touched on themes of political resilience and opposition, echoing sentiments previously expressed by former President Trump after an assassination attempt against him. Bannon declared:
"The only way that they win is if we retreat, and we are not going to retreat, we're not going to surrender, we are not going to quit, we're going to fight, fight, fight" – Steve Bannon
The incident at CPAC has reignited discussions about the implications of such gestures and their historical context. Historians argue that the term "Roman salute" is essentially indistinguishable from the Nazi salute due to its adoption by fascist regimes. Despite Bannon's provocative rhetoric and controversial gestures, he continues to receive substantial support from his audience.