New York GOP Disbands Young Republicans Chapter Over Racist, Antisemitic Chats

New York's Republican State Committee has unanimously voted to suspend the New York State Young Republicans chapter following the exposure of group chat messages containing racist, antisemitic, and homophobic slurs, as well as jokes about gas chambers and praise for Adolf Hitler. The scandal, first reported by Politico, revealed messages from leaders including the group's chair and vice chair, who apologized but also claimed some messages might have been doctored or taken out of context. New York GOP Chair Ed Cox condemned the vile language and cited ongoing mismanagement as reasons for the shutdown. The decision contrasts with national figures like Vice President J.D. Vance, who downplayed the severity of the situation. Republican leaders in New York are keen to distance themselves from such rhetoric, recognizing that offensive comments alienate moderate and independent voters crucial for electoral success in the state. The Young Republican National Federation expressed being appalled by the messages, and calls have been made for those involved to step down, with the possibility of reconstituting the group in the future.