‘Uncivilised, anti-American’: Vivek Ramaswamy faces backlash for barefoot interview

One user wrote, “Vivek will never be governor of Ohio. This is unacceptable for America.”

Another commented, “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 a dig at his political stance, saying, “Vivek lectures us about education while barefoot. Uncivilized.”

Not everyone agreed with the backlash. Commentator Ian Miles Cheong quickly dismissed the backlash as the “dumbest argument” he had heard, defending Ramaswamy by pointing out that going barefoot in one’s own home is far from being “anti-American.”

“I guess too many people grew up on sitcoms where they wear their shoes in bed,” Cheong quipped.

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. pic.twitter.com/JVfJMa6VKe

— Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) February 28, 2025

Ramaswamy himself too addressed the controversy head-on, saying, “This is America, folks. I let the dogs out in my house when I feel like it.”

His response drew both praise and criticism. One user commended his composure, writing, “Vivek showed extreme class when Coulter stated flat out because of his race she would not vote for him. He kept the conversation going and never fell into an offended or victim mentality. Well done by him.”

Many users defended Ramaswamy, pointing out that removing shoes indoors is a common practice in many cultures, particularly in South and East Asia.

“Nearly all Indians go barefoot in their own homes. There’s nothing wrong with it. Just a cultural thing,” one user explained.

Another user added, “In Indian tradition, it is customary to take off your shoes before entering someone’s home. It’s a sign of respect and hygiene, as it prevents bringing dirt and germs from outside into the house. This practice is widely followed.”

Vivek Ramaswamy run for governor in Ohio

Ramaswamy, a former Republican presidential candidate, was selected by Donald Trump after exiting the race to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) alongside Elon Musk, but left the job to pursue elected office.

His candidacy was given an early boost of momentum after receiving an endorsement from President Trump.

Ohio’s Republican primary election is set to take place next year, coinciding with the nationwide congressional elections.

Like Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy has previously supported aggressive government-cutting measures, including proposals to eliminate the FBI and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

A native of Ohio, Ramaswamy has also voiced his intention to “gut” the H-1B visa program, which allows US companies to hire skilled foreign workers. He argues that American culture has “venerated mediocrity over excellence.”

Ramaswamy, a wealthy pharmaceutical entrepreneur, was estimated by Forbes last year to have a net worth of $960 million (£758 million).