A Vermont state lawmaker has officially resigned following the emergence of racist and antisemitic chat messages shared within the Young Republican political group. This incident marks a significant fallout in a scandal that culminated in the revocation of the New York state Young Republicans’ charter on Friday. State senator Samuel Douglass, the only elected official linked to the leaked group chat, announced his resignation on Friday, citing his involvement as the reason.
In a heartfelt statement shared online, the 26-year-old Douglass expressed his deep remorse over the offense his comments had caused. He acknowledged that his decision to step down, effective Monday, would “upset many, and delight others,” but emphasized the need to prioritize his family’s safety in the current political climate. Douglass had faced mounting pressure to resign from both Vermont Governor Phil Scott and state senate minority leader Scott Beck since the publication of the chats by Politico.
The leaked messages included derogatory comments regarding various groups. In one instance, Douglass responded to a message about a “very obese Indian woman” with a remark about her hygiene. Additionally, he reportedly made a comment implying that a Jewish individual had made a procedural mistake. His wife, Brianna Douglass, who also participated in the chat, was noted to have made an antisemitic remark as well, according to Politico.
The chat messages revealed a troubling atmosphere of factional infighting within the Young Republicans. Remarks included slurs aimed at members from Minnesota, derogatory comments directed at Nebraskans, and crude insults towards Rhode Island members. Furthermore, there were alarming references to a “fat stinky Jew” and chilling jokes about gas chambers, torture, and rape.
In his resignation statement, Douglass defended his comments, describing them as “an unflattering remark about a specific individual” rather than a generalization. He expressed a desire to “mend bridges to the best of my ability” and revealed that he and his wife have received “some of the most horrific hate one could imagine,” including threats of violence. The issue of political violence has recently gained prominence in the US, especially following high-profile incidents involving conservative activists.
Douglass and his wife had previously resigned from their roles within the Vermont Young Republicans. Following the chat revelations, Governor Scott condemned the behavior, stating that there is “simply no excuse” for the vile, racist, bigoted, and antisemitic dialogue. He called for immediate resignations from all involved, including Senator Douglass.
Despite the seriousness of the situation, some individuals, like JD Vance, attempted to downplay the exchanges as mere “edgy” jokes told by “kids.” He suggested that most group members were between the ages of 24 and 35, arguing against the notion that a “stupid joke” should ruin someone’s life. This comment came after he had previously demanded consequences for offensive remarks made in response to a tragic incident involving an activist.
On Saturday, Scott Beck remarked that Douglass’s resignation symbolized the conclusion of a “difficult week” for Vermont. The unfolding events have sparked significant discussions about racism, antisemitism, and the accountability of public officials, highlighting the pressing need for a thorough examination of the values within political organizations.
