Carrie Ann Inaba does not like lifts on Dancing With The Stars because the show's official rules, aligned with true ballroom and Latin dance competitions, prohibit lifts in certain dance styles. She is designated as the "lift police" judge and docks points specifically for lifts in styles where they are not allowed. This rule exists to keep the competition fair and authentic to ballroom traditions, as well as to level the playing field for dancers of different ages and physical abilities. Lifts are seen as giving an unfair advantage and can make the dances less authentic to their style. While some dance styles on the show allow lifts, the original ballroom and Latin dances featured do not permit them. Carrie Ann's enforcement of this rule is to maintain fairness and respect for ballroom standards.
In addition, Carrie Ann has explained in various interviews and posts that the no-lift rule is part of grounding the show in traditional ballroom competition and keeping the choreography true to its roots.
