Controversy & Condemnation - Young Republican groups' members made racist jokes and slurs about slavery, rape, Hitler, and the Holocaust in group chats [3] - New York Republicans moved to revoke the chapter of their state's young Republican group after the chats were unveiled [1] - A Young Republican National Federation chair candidate joked about sending those who vote against him to the "gas chamber" [3] - The lack of condemnation from the President of the United States is concerning [9] Responses & Reactions - JD Vance downplayed the chats as "kids doing stupid things" and telling "offensive jokes" [4][5] - Some argue leadership requires policing such behavior and sending a clear signal that it's unacceptable [8] - Some leaders in the Republican party have previously removed members for similar comments [12][13] Societal Implications - The greatest threat to the homeland is now considered racially motivated domestic violent extremism, with white supremacy as the largest group within that category [14] - The current political climate is empowering extremist groups, referencing the January 6th events [17][18] - There's a concern that January 6th is being turned into a celebratory event for some [18]