Antisemitism Scandal Hits New York Young Republicans Club Amid Leadership Turmoil
The Young Republicans Club of New York City, once a prestigious stepping stone for conservative youth aiming for political careers, is embroiled in controversy over antisemitic and racist conduct within its leadership. The club, with nearly 2,000 members and notable past affiliates including former President Richard Nixon and Governor Nelson Rockefeller, recently faced scrutiny after revelations about its former treasurer, Nicholas Rafael Jr. A New York magazine investigation uncovered that Rafael allegedly operated a fake social media account filled with antisemitic hate speech, Nazi imagery, and racist slurs. One post from May 19 stated, "It is simply a historical fact that our society will thrive when Jews are thrown out of the city." Rafael denied ownership of the account and claimed a photo showing him in German military uniform with a Nazi salute was fabricated. The club’s lawyer confirmed an internal investigation and said Rafael was placed on leave. The account has since been removed.
This scandal emerges amid broader tensions in New York’s Republican youth circles. Last October, a Telegram group linked to the state Young Republicans was disbanded after it was found to contain Holocaust jokes and pro-Hitler content. Meanwhile, under club president Stefano Porta, the NYC Young Republicans have embraced more hardline "America First" stances aligned with Donald Trump’s agenda. Former members describe a hostile environment, especially toward Jewish members, with antisemitic attitudes tolerated or encouraged. During Porta’s tenure, a mezuzah was removed from the club’s Manhattan headquarters, prompting many Jewish leaders to leave.
The controversy has alarmed key donors. Joshua Eisen, a New York investment manager and former Republican Senate candidate, condemned the antisemitic language and said he would reconsider his donations. Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, called the revelations a disturbing example of antisemitism infiltrating some young Republican circles. The internal strife has also spilled into legal battles, with the club suing former press committee chair Lucian Wintrich for defamation after he accused the leadership of financial misconduct related to donations.
Disillusioned former members criticize the club’s focus on internal conflicts rather than electoral success. Lucas Federico, 23, lamented that the club is "harassing a former member instead of investing money in electing candidates." A senior former member warned that association with the club’s current turmoil could damage young conservatives’ prospects in government jobs.
