A Milwaukee weather reporter has been let go from her position at a local TV station just one day after she publicly criticized Elon Musk on social media. The controversy began when Musk, who now heads the Department of Government Efficiency, made a gesture during a gathering at Capital One Arena following President Donald Trump’s inauguration. Some viewers compared his raised arm and chest-thumping motion to a Nazi salute, sparking widespread debate online.
Sam Kuffel, the meteorologist in question, took to Instagram to express her disapproval of Musk’s actions. 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.” In another post, she used a GIF from the show It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia to emphasize her feelings, captioning it, “Screw that old b****. He’s a Nazi.”
Kuffel’s comments quickly drew attention, including criticism from conservative radio host Dan O’Donnell, who accused her of spreading falsehoods 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 well-liked 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 freedom of expression and the consequences of public commentary.
Amid the uproar, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), an organization dedicated to combating antisemitism and promoting justice, defended Musk. In a statement on X, they clarified that Musk’s gesture was likely an “awkward moment of enthusiasm” rather than a Nazi salute. 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 fine line between personal expression and professional consequences.
