Vice-President JD Vance has played down the revelation that leaders of the Young Republican National Federation exchanged hundreds of racist, sexist and pro-Hitler text messages, describing them as 'stupid jokes' typical of young people. Speaking on the Charlie Kirk Show, Vance suggested the participants were much younger than they actually are, despite some being in their mid-30s.
The leaked Telegram chat, obtained by Politico, included messages such as 'I love Hitler' and a reference to rape as 'epic'. Eight of the 11 operatives involved are aged between 24 and 35, according to public records. The Young Republican National Federation, which represents Republicans aged 18 to 40, has called for those involved to step down, describing the messages as 'unbecoming of any Republican'.
Vance, however, criticised Democrats and the media for focusing on what he called 'what a bunch of kids say in a group chat'. He compared the scandal to offensive texts sent by a Democratic candidate for Virginia attorney general, Jay Jones, who joked about killing a Republican colleague. Vance said he grew up in an era when 'stupid things' were not posted online and urged people to focus on 'real issues'.
Other Republicans have demanded immediate action. Vermont Governor Phil Scott and state legislative leaders called for the resignation of state senator Sam Douglass, identified as a participant. New York congresswoman Elise Stefanik said she was 'absolutely appalled' and demanded those involved step down. Danedri Herbert, chair of the Kansas GOP, said the remarks did not reflect Republican beliefs.
Democrats have been more uniform in their condemnation. California Governor Gavin Newsom has requested a House investigation into the messages, calling them 'the definition of conduct that can create a hostile and discriminatory environment'. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer also criticised the exchanges.
