A Milwaukee TV meteorologist has been let go from her position after publicly criticizing Elon Musk on social media. The controversy began when Musk, who now oversees the Department of Government Efficiency, made a gesture during a gathering at Capital One Arena following President Donald Trump’s inauguration. Some viewers interpreted his raised arm and chest-thumping motion as resembling a Nazi salute, sparking widespread debate.
Sam Kuffel, the meteorologist in question, took to Instagram to express her outrage. In one post, she wrote, “Dude Nazi saluted twice. TWICE. During the inauguration.” She didn’t hold back, adding, “You f*** with this and this man, I don’t f*** with you. Full stop.” She also shared a GIF from It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia with the caption, “Screw that old b****. He’s a Nazi.”
Her comments quickly drew criticism, including from conservative radio host Dan O’Donnell, who accused her of spreading false claims about Musk’s gesture. Shortly after, Jessie Garcia, the station’s news director, confirmed Kuffel’s departure in an internal memo, stating, “Meteorologist Sam Kuffel is no longer employed at CBS58.” The station is now searching for a replacement.
Kuffel had been with CBS58 for over five years and was a popular figure in the Milwaukee community. Before joining the station, she worked at WAOW-TV in Wausau after graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2016. Her sudden dismissal has sparked discussions about the limits of free expression and the consequences of public commentary.
Amid the uproar, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) defended Musk, describing his gesture as an “awkward moment of enthusiasm” rather than a Nazi salute. In a statement on X, they urged people to offer “a bit of grace” and focus on unity during this politically charged time.
Adding to the conversation, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also came to Musk’s defense on X, stating that Musk was being “falsely smeared.” The incident highlights the complexities of public perception and the challenges of navigating social media in today’s polarized climate.
