Kamala Harris Attends Met Gala Amid Backlash Over Taxpayer-Funded Security

Former Vice President Kamala Harris made her debut appearance at the 2025 Met Gala in New York, donning a black-and-white gown by Off-White designer Ib Kamara that reflected the event's theme, 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.' Harris used the occasion to highlight the role of art in shaping culture and politics, stating that artistic expression helps define societal dialogue. However, her attendance drew widespread criticism online, with detractors labeling her as elitist and out of touch, particularly given the event's $75,000 ticket price and her recent use of a large security detail. Critics argued that her presence at the exclusive gala reinforced perceptions that Democratic leaders are disconnected from average Americans, linking this sentiment to the party's prior electoral losses. The backlash also included accusations that Harris and her party no longer represent the working class, as social media users mocked her participation in what they described as a 'snooty' and 'elite' event. Despite the controversy, Harris's appearance signaled her continued engagement with the public and cultural spheres after her 2024 presidential defeat.