Sam Kuffel, a meteorologist at WDJT-TV in Milwaukee, was terminated after criticizing Elon Musk's gesture during President Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2025.

Reactions to Musk's gesture varied widely; while some viewed it as harmless, Kuffel and others found it offensive, linking it to historical fascist symbolism.

Reports regarding the circumstances of Kuffel's departure are conflicting, with some suggesting she was fired while others claim she left voluntarily, although it is clear her criticism of Musk was a factor.

CBS58 confirmed Kuffel's departure through an internal email, but did not specify that her Instagram posts were the reason for her firing.

The incident has sparked a heated debate on social media, with divided opinions on whether Kuffel's right to free speech was violated by her employer.

Kuffel faced backlash when conservative radio host Dan O'Donnell shared her Instagram posts, which accused Musk of making a Nazi salute, labeling her claims as 'vulgar'.

Musk has been characterized as a walking contradiction, advocating for free speech while allegedly suppressing dissent through his actions.

Supporters of Kuffel criticized CBS58 for her firing, arguing it stifles free speech and undermines journalistic integrity.

Following Kuffel's dismissal, a reader poll by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel indicated that most respondents disagreed with CBS58's decision to fire her.

By January 22, 2025, Kuffel's biography and photo were removed from the CBS58 website, confirming her exit from the station.

Kuffel, who had been with WDJT-TV for over five years and previously worked at WAOW-TV, was recognized for her weather forecasts and contributions to local media.

The controversy surrounding Musk's gesture has ignited discussions about political bias in media coverage, further complicating the narrative around Kuffel's firing.