An iconic chapter in the history of the New York Young Republican Club comes to a close, marking the end of an era defined by bold leadership and transformational growth.
Gavin Wax has formally tendered his resignation as President of the New York Young Republican Club. In accordance with the Club’s bylaws, he now assumes the role of Chairman, where he will continue to serve while pursuing new endeavors and broader impact.
“It’s been the honor of a lifetime to serve this Club,” said Gavin Wax. “We built something bold, unapologetic, and historic—right here in the belly of the beast. I’m proud of what we accomplished together, and I look forward to continuing to serve in my new role as Chairman as the Club enters its next great chapter.”
When Wax assumed the presidency in April 2019, the Club had just 30 members and under $5,000 in cash reserves. In the years that followed, he transformed it into the largest Young Republican organization in the United States, with nearly 1,800 dues-paying members and a seven-figure annual operating budget. Under his guidance, the Club became one of the first organizations in the nation to officially endorse President Donald J. Trump, hosted the President himself at its Annual Gala, and played a central role in coordinating his 2024 campaign stops across New York.
The Club’s meteoric growth was accompanied by a cultural and institutional revival. Under Wax’s leadership, the Club adopted a new seal and motto, implemented the internal caucus system to expand member engagement and governance, and formed multiple international partnerships with the youth wings of conservative political parties around the world. These relationships were further strengthened through formal Club delegations to Italy, France, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Hungary, and El Salvador—where the Club proudly represented American conservative youth on the international stage.
The Club’s boldness did not go unnoticed. Its 108th Annual Gala generated national headlines and massive media coverage for defying New York City’s COVID-19 lockdown restrictions, as the Club boldly chose to host the event across the river in New Jersey—making a clear statement in defense of liberty and tradition in the face of government overreach. The Club also made headlines again when it hosted the “Rally for Trump” event in lower Manhattan with Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, protesting the political arrest of Former President Donald J. Trump in a powerful public demonstration of solidarity and resolve.
The influence and reach of the Club extended well beyond events and networking. During Wax’s tenure, numerous Club members were elected to public office at every level, including as judges, members of the New York City Council, state legislators, and even to the United States Congress. The Club not only cultivated activists and leaders—it produced elected officials who carried its values into the halls of power.
This impact earned national and statewide recognition, including the Outstanding Club Social Media Award in 2020 and the Outstanding Recruitment Award in 2023 from the Young Republican National Federation. In 2021, it was named Club of the Year by the Association of New York State Young Republican Clubs, further cementing its reputation as a powerhouse of conservative youth leadership.
Wax’s tenure also marked a new era of activism and civic engagement. He led litigation—supported by the Club—that successfully overturned an unconstitutional New York State Assembly district map, a major victory for election integrity and the rights of all New Yorkers to free and fair representation. Under his leadership, the Club raised over $20,000 for the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, reflecting its continued commitment to service, patriotism, and community impact.
Equally historic was Wax’s achievement in securing a permanent Clubhouse—the first in generations—which quickly became a sanctuary for conservatives in an overwhelmingly liberal city.
Within its walls, the Club hosted countless strategic meetings, spirited social events, and high-energy gatherings that brought together members, leaders, and allies from across the country.
Wax’s leadership was not confined to boardrooms or ballots. He took to the streets—rallying to defend the Teddy Roosevelt statue outside the Museum of Natural History, launching Reoccupy Wall Street, and leading the March on Gracie Mansion to protest the city’s draconian vaccine mandates. His activism inspired thousands and redefined what it meant to be a conservative in New York City.
“Gavin’s tenure redefined what a Young Republican club could be,” said the Board of Governors. “Through his fearless leadership, relentless drive, and visionary strategy, he turned this organization into a national beacon for young conservatives. His legacy is unmatched.”
Under Wax’s fearless guidance, the Club broke new ground, expanded its reach, and revitalized the conservative movement among the next generation. His influence gave the New York Young Republican Club its bold identity, unapologetic voice, and national stature.
Chairman Gavin Wax leaves behind a legacy of conviction, courage, and unyielding patriotism. The New York Young Republican Club is forever indebted to his service, his vision, and his indelible mark on its history. He is the embodiment of the forgotten MAGA patriot—standing firm in the bluest stronghold, never backing down.
His next chapter begins now—and we’ll be watching, supporting, and cheering him on every step of the way.