Vivek Ramaswamy faces backlash for barefoot interview, sparks cultural debate

NRI PULSE NEWS REPORT

Columbus, Ohio, March 1, 2025: Ohio Gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy recently found himself at the center of online controversy after a video resurfaced of him conducting an interview barefoot in his home. The clip, originally live-streamed last year, prompted criticism from some social media users who labeled his appearance “uncivilized” and “anti-American.”

The backlash included comments suggesting that going barefoot during an interview was inappropriate for someone seeking high office. One user remarked, “Maybe at least have some socks on while you interview for a position in the most powerful empire on the planet, yeah?” Another stated, “Vivek will never be governor of Ohio. This is unacceptable for America.”

However, many came to Ramaswamy’s defense, highlighting that removing shoes indoors is a common practice in several cultures, including South and East Asia. Political commentator Ian Miles Cheong responded to the criticism by saying, “The dumbest argument I’ve heard against Vivek is that going barefoot in your own house is anti-American. I guess too many people grew up on sitcoms where they wear their shoes in bed.”

Other social media users also weighed in on the debate. One user noted, “Maybe he didn’t expect a camera shot on his feet but it’s really not that big of a deal at all.”

Another commented, “Any sensible household will have a no-footwear policy or at least a no-outdoor-footwear policy for their house. Anyone who does not have it has no clue about hygiene.”

A different perspective was offered by an Ohio resident who stated, “I always go barefoot in my house. But then again, I’m not on publicly distributed podcasts while doing it. Interesting choice. Might not be as jarring if he was dressed casual. Very odd to be barefoot in a suit. It’s not affecting my opinion of him. I’m in Ohio so I do get to decide to vote for him or not.”

Ramaswamy himself addressed the issue, downplaying the criticism. “This is America, folks. I let the dogs out in my house when I feel like it,” he said, indicating his belief in personal freedom within one’s home.

The incident has ignited a broader discussion on cultural practices, personal freedom, and hygiene related to wearing shoes indoors. While some see the controversy as trivial, others believe it reflects deeper societal attitudes towards multiculturalism and traditions in the U.S.

Cover photo courtesy: Ian Miles Cheong on X.