White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt ignited a controversy by criticizing New York City's First Lady, Rama Duwaji, for her choice of footwear at Mayor Zohran Mamdani's inauguration. Leavitt took to Instagram to express her disapproval of the $630 Miista boots Duwaji wore, deeming them a symbol of hypocrisy given Mamdani's platform focused on affordability. Leavitt labeled the couple 'Classic Communists,' suggesting a double standard where rules apply to the public but not to them. She argued that while the administration wants New Yorkers to contribute significantly to taxes, Duwaji was seen in designer boots reportedly costing a week's salary for many. However, Duwaji's stylist, Gabriella Karefa-Johnson, clarified that the entire outfit, including the boots, was borrowed or loaned, with the boots being a sample from the brand Miista. This explanation aimed to counter claims of extravagant personal spending. The controversy highlights the intersection of political messaging, personal style, and public perception. Critics of Leavitt pointed out her own history of wearing high-end designer brands. Mamdani's political platform centers on making New York City more affordable through measures like rent freezes and increased taxes on the wealthy. The incident has led to broader discussions about the role of first spouses in public life and how their fashion choices are interpreted in relation to their partners' political agendas.