State Duma Deputy Samokish described the "Youth Capital of Russia" competition as "complete shit," reacting in this way to Tomsk's loss. He later admitted that he had "spoken in the heat of the moment" in his statements.

State Duma deputy representing the Tomsk region, Vladimir Samokish, sharply criticized the "Youth Capital of Russia — 2026" competition, describing it as "complete bullshit." The reason for this assessment was Tomsk's second-place finish. The publication "7x7" drew attention to this statement by the parliamentarian.