**Star Chef Tom Colicchio Mocked After Inaccurate Criticism of White House Ballroom Renovation**
*Published on The Blaze | October 27, 2025 | By Carlos Garcia*
A star chef from the popular show *Top Chef* attempted to stir controversy over the demolition involved in President Donald Trump’s White House ballroom renovation but instead became the target of widespread mockery.
Tom Colicchio shared a photograph on his official social media account claiming it was from the East Room of the White House, which is currently being renovated to make room for a large ballroom. “My wife and I in the East Wing. I can’t believe it is gone,” he posted.
However, many observers quickly pointed out that the photograph was not from the East Room at all. Instead, it was taken in the Diplomatic Reception Room, located in the main White House residence.
“You’re in luck! That’s not the East Wing,” responded Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah).
Similarly, Mollie Hemingway of *The Federalist* remarked, “I’m thrilled to be able to tell you that that room is not in the East Wing and not gone.”
Podcaster Derek Hunter added, “Imagine being so stupid you think the East and West Wings are part of the actual White House and not additional offices connected by hallways so you don’t have to go outside to get to them.”
Colicchio’s tweet also received a community note clarifying the mistake. The note stated:
“This is clearly the Diplomatic Reception Room, which can be found in the main White House building, NOT the East Wing. A picture featuring the painting, fireplace, and bits of the wallpaper can be found here,” with an accompanying link to the White House website for reference.
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**Community Reactions**
The post sparked a range of responses from online commentators:
– “I knew it was going to be Tom Colicchio,” wrote one user.
– Another commented, “The chef is a dork.”
– Some critiqued Colicchio for engaging in politics instead of sticking to his culinary expertise.
– Others dismissed the concerns about the renovation altogether, encouraging people to “stay in your swim lane.”
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**Disclaimer:** Opinions expressed in the comments are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the views of *Free Republic* or its management.
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*Read more at TheBlaze.com.*
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