A discussion group of Young Republicans has revealed some shocking and unacceptable exchanges among its members.
A Telegram chat from a Young Republican club has surfaced, exposing the members’ communications, which have drawn widespread disapproval.
The chat contained racially charged comments aimed at black individuals, derogatory language, antisemitic and sexist remarks, as well as statements that either supported or glorified Hitler.
The Young Republican Federation, consisting of 15,000 members across the United States, includes individuals aged 18 to 40 and is categorized as a 527 group. This type of organization primarily seeks to influence the selection or election of candidates for public office at the federal, state, or local levels.
Many members from the Young Republican organization hold positions within various elected offices nationwide.
A report by Politico on October 14 unveiled 28,000 messages collected over seven months. The individuals identified in these exchanges have had to respond to the remarks they are accused of making.
The organization’s Board of Directors released their own statement in reaction to the chat’s contents, urging those involved to step down from all roles within their state and local Young Republican chapters.
The directors’ statement expressed: “We are appalled by the vile and inexcusable language revealed in the Politico article published today.
“Such behavior is disgraceful, unbecoming of any Republican, and stands in direct opposition to the values our movement represents.”
As reported by Mail Online, Assemblymember Mike Reilly terminated his chief of staff, Peter Giunta, after claims emerged about his involvement in the chat.
Giunta is alleged to have commented, ‘I love Hitler’ and ‘everyone that votes no is going to the gas chamber’ in the group chat.
Addressing Giunta’s dismissal, Reilly stated: “The comments shared in the group chat that have been reported are extremely troubling and disappointing. They do not align with my values. As a result, Mr. Giunta’s assignment in my office has ended.”
Giunta issued an apology but also hinted that the messages might have been altered.
He stated: “While I take complete responsibility, I have had no way of verifying their accuracy and am deeply concerned that the message logs in question may have been deceptively doctored.”
Bobby Walker, who served as vice chair of the New York State Young Republicans during the chat period, released a statement following allegations that he described rape as ‘epic’.
He likewise suggested the messages might have been ‘altered, taken out of context, or otherwise manipulated’ and claimed they were released in such a manner as to inflict damage.
Walker added: “There is no excuse for the language and tone in messages attributed to me. The language is wrong and hurtful, and I sincerely apologize.”