Vivek Ramaswamy has found himself at the centre of an unusual controversy after an old clip of him giving a barefoot interview at home resurfaced online, sparking backlash and accusations of being “uncivilised” and even “anti-American.”
The 39-year-old entrepreneur and former presidential candidate, who is now running for governor of Ohio, was seen without shoes during a live stream last year. The clip has since made rounds on social media, triggering a wave of strong reactions.
Addressing the latest controversy, commentator Ian Miles Cheong dismissed the backlash, 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.”
“Vivek will never be governor of Ohio. This is unacceptable for America,” wrote one critic on X (formerly Twitter). Another added, “Maybe at least have some socks on while you interview for a position in the most powerful empire on the planet, yeah?”
A third user took issue with his choice to go shoeless, writing, “Vivek lectures us about education while barefoot. Uncivilised.”
However, others defended Ramaswamy, pointing out that removing shoes indoors is a common practice in many cultures, including in South and East Asia. Political commentator Kim Iversen weighed in, saying, “I understand this is a ‘culture’ thing, but you non-Asians wearing shoes in your homes need a culture shift.”
She added, “In my house, not only do we remove our shoes, but you can’t wear socks either. I have all hardwood floors, and we’ve already had four people slip and fall.”
Another user supported her stance, arguing, “Shoes in a home are disgusting. This is a hygiene thing, not a cultural thing.”
Ramaswamy himself addressed the backlash when contacted for comment, saying, “This is America, folks. I let the dogs out in my house when I feel like it.”
The debate over his barefoot interview has also reignited conversations about hygiene. Experts have warned against wearing shoes indoors due to the risk of tracking in harmful bacteria, pesticides, and even faecal matter from public spaces.
While some conservatives have criticised Ramaswamy’s background, others have commended his response. “Vivek showed extreme class when Coulter stated flat out because of his race she would not vote for him,” said one social media user. “He kept the conversation going and never fell into an offended or victim mentality. Well done by him.”