Vivek Ramaswamy, a 39-year-old entrepreneur and former presidential candidate, triggered a debate after a clip of his barefoot interview at home resurfaced online, provoking backlash from some who deemed it “uncivilised.” Commentator Ian Miles Cheong defended Ramaswamy, arguing that going barefoot in one’s home is culturally acceptable and not anti-American. Critics, however, maintained that his choice was inappropriate, with some suggesting he should wear socks for such interviews. Supporters highlighted the practice’s cultural significance, particularly among South and East Asians. Ramaswamy addressed the criticism, affirming his comfort in his home, which some saw as a demonstration of confidence.
Washington:
Vivek Ramaswamy, the 39-year-old entrepreneur and former presidential candidate, has become the focal point of a controversial debate after an interview clip of him going barefoot at home resurfaced online. This video, recorded during a live stream last year, has ignited a flurry of reactions on social media, with some critics branding his behavior as “uncivilised” and “anti-American”.
Commentator Ian Miles Cheong swiftly came to Ramaswamy’s defense, labeling the criticism as “the dumbest argument” he has encountered. Cheong argued that being barefoot in one’s home is far from anti-American and suggested that critics might have been swayed by sitcoms where characters often wear shoes indoors, stating, “I guess too many people grew up on sitcoms where they wear their shoes in bed.”
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
Regardless of Cheong’s support, numerous critics continued to voice their disapproval on social media. One user commented, “Vivek will never be governor of Ohio. This is unacceptable for America.” Another remarked, “Maybe at least wear some socks while you interview for a position in the most powerful empire on the planet, yeah?” A third user expressed disdain for Ramaswamy’s shoeless choice, stating, “Vivek lectures us about education while barefoot. Uncivilised.”
Nevertheless, not everyone was critical of Ramaswamy’s choices. A number of users defended him, highlighting that going shoeless indoors is a common practice in numerous 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 noted. Another added, “In Indian tradition, it is customary to take off your shoes before entering someone’s home, regarded as a sign of respect and hygiene, since it prevents dirt and germs from entering the house; this practice is widely accepted.”
Political commentator Kim Iversen joined the conversation, stating, “I understand this is a ‘culture’ thing, but you non-Asians wearing shoes in your homes need a culture shift.” Iversen mentioned that in her own home, shoes are prohibited, and even socks are forbidden due to the possibility of slipping on hardwood floors.
Ramaswamy himself responded to the criticism, asserting, “This is America, folks. I let the dogs out in my house when I feel like it.” His reply has been praised by some, who view it as a demonstration of self-assurance and autonomy.
While certain conservatives have scrutinized Ramaswamy’s background, others have lauded his reaction to the backlash. One user commented, “Vivek showed extreme class when Coulter outright said she would not vote for him because of his race. He maintained the dialogue and never resorted to an offended or victim mentality. Well done on his part.”