Vivek Ramaswamy faced criticism online after images of him barefoot during an interview surfaced, leading to negative comments about his cultural practices. While detractors labeled his behavior as un-American, supporters highlighted the common practice of removing shoes indoors for hygiene. Ramaswamy is running for Ohio Governor in 2026, following his resignation from the Department of Government Efficiency and endorsement by prominent figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump.
Vivek Ramaswamy, an Indian-American entrepreneur and political candidate, recently faced significant online backlash following the resurfacing of images from an interview conducted in his home last year. Critics ridiculed his decision to appear barefoot, making comments that reflected disdain for his cultural practices, with some sarcastically noting, “we aren’t in India.” Supporters, however, defended his choices, emphasizing cultural differences regarding footwear in homes.
The controversy emerged as Ramaswamy, who is running for the Ohio gubernatorial seat in 2026, resigned from his position at the US Department of Government Efficiency to focus on his campaign. Despite negative responses on social media, including remarks such as “This is not American culture,” he also received backing from some figures who appreciated his cultural practices. Notably, American commentator Ian Miles Cheong referred to the trolling as the “dumbest argument” against Ramaswamy.
In the discourse around this incident, supporters highlighted the practice of removing shoes indoors as a matter of hygiene rather than culture. Many asserted that maintaining cleanliness by going barefoot is natural in several homes, both in Indian and American contexts. Ramaswamy, a Harvard graduate and son of immigrants from Kerala, has positioned himself as a prominent figure in the political arena, known for his strong anti-establishment views.
Following a brief tenure in the White House where he co-chaired the Department of Government Efficiency alongside Elon Musk, Ramaswamy had ended his earlier presidential campaign and has recently garnered support from Musk and Donald Trump for his gubernatorial aspirations.
Vivek Ramaswamy’s barefoot interview ignited controversy online, highlighting the clash between cultural practices and perceptions of American decorum. Critics voiced their disapproval, while supporters defended his customs, reinforcing the importance of understanding cultural differences in discussions about hygiene and respect in the home. As Ramaswamy pursues a gubernatorial candidacy, this incident underscores the complexities of cultural identity in American politics.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
