Ethics panel rules on Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s Met Gala appearance

On July 25, 2025, the House Ethics Committee announced that Rep. Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez must pay approximately $2,733.28 to comply fully with ethics rules related to her 2021 Met Gala appearance, where she wore a custom white gown emblazoned with the slogan “Tax the Rich”.

She is also asked to contribute $250 to the Met's Costume Institute to cover her partner’s meal.

The report found that while AOC attempted to observe House gift regulations by personally paying for services and styling, she did not pay full fair market value for certain items.

Additionally, she accepted free admission to the gala for her partner, who was not eligible, under ethics rules at the time, to receive such a gift.

The ethics panel clarified that it did not cite any knowing or intentional wrongdoing, acknowledging AOC’s efforts to comply by working with legal advisors and her staff.

However, due to delayed payments and items priced below market standards, the committee deemed further payment necessary to close the case.

A congressional statement from her chief of staff affirmed, “She accepts the ruling and will remedy the remaining amounts, as she’s done at each step in this process.”

The Met Gala appearance in question took place in September 2021.

The gown became a political talking point as AOC attended an event known for its high-ticket price tag, frequently reported around $35,000 per seat, while promoting tax reform and inequality.