Racist slurs. Hitler praise. Jokes about gas chambers.

These weren’t overheard in a fringe hate forum — they were sent by prominent members of Young Republican chapters in a private group chat, many of whom held official roles in the GOP or worked on campaigns. This wasn’t “kids being kids.” It was bigotry from political operatives in positions of real influence.

Yet Vice President J.D. Vance is downplaying the incident, saying “kids do stupid things” and that lives shouldn’t be “ruined” over “very offensive, stupid jokes.”

No. This is not just poor taste. It’s hate speech — and hate has consequences.

Some of the individuals involved have stepped down or been let go, but many remain in GOP leadership roles or active in political work. That is unacceptable.

We demand:

• That all individuals involved in the racist group chat resign from leadership roles in Young Republican organizations.
• That Vice President Vance retract his dismissive comments and unequivocally condemn the language used in the group chat. 
• That the GOP formally commit to a zero-tolerance policy for hate speech among its operatives, no matter their age.

A party that tolerates racism behind closed doors cannot credibly govern a diverse nation.

Sign this petition to send a message: racism is not a phase, and hate is not a punchline.