Full Breakdown
Allegations of Hate Speech Rock Staten Island Young Republicans
10/16/2025, 5:28:09 AM
Core Event: Firing of Chief of Staff Over Antisemitic Comments
Assemblymember Mike Reilly of Staten Island has terminated his chief of staff, Peter Giunta, following the exposure of alleged antisemitic and racist comments made in a private group chat among young Republican leaders. The chat, which was leaked by Politico, included disturbing remarks such as “I love Hitler” and “everyone that votes no is going to the gas chamber.” Giunta, who had been with Reilly since 2019, was a candidate for chair of the Young Republican National Federation during the time of the messages.
Background & Context: The Young Republican National Federation
The Young Republican National Federation is an organization that represents approximately 15,000 members aged 18 to 40. The leaked messages, which spanned over seven months and included more than 2,900 pages of content, revealed a pattern of offensive language and violent rhetoric among its members, including Giunta and Bobby Walker, the state group's current chair.
Official Statements & Responses
Reilly stated, “The comments shared in the group chat that have been reported are extremely troubling and disappointing. They do not align with my values. As a result, Mr. Giunta’s assignment in my office has ended.” Giunta issued an apology, claiming the messages may have been doctored and alleging a coordinated smear campaign against him by members of the New York City Young Republican Club.
The Richmond County Republican Party, led by Assemblymember Michael Tannousis, condemned the remarks, calling them “a moral disgrace” and asserting that such behavior would not be tolerated. Tannousis emphasized that the views expressed in the chat do not represent the values of the Republican Party or the Staten Island community.
Criticism & Opposition: Calls for Accountability
In response to the leaked messages, Assembly Deputy Majority Leader Charles D. Fall, chair of the Staten Island Democratic Party, criticized the Republican Party for its delayed condemnation of the comments. He called for a full internal investigation into the matter and urged law enforcement to explore potential links between the messages and recent antisemitic vandalism in the area. Fall stated, “This is all offensive, insulting and disgusting and it has absolutely no room here on Staten Island or in our country.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “The comments shared in the group chat that have been reported are extremely troubling and disappointing. They do not align with my values. As a result, Mr. Giunta’s assignment in my office has ended,” — Mike Reilly, Assemblymember
- “The Richmond County Republican Party is appalled and unequivocally condemns the vile, hateful rhetoric recently reported by Politico. It is shocking and incredibly disappointing that this disgusting discourse could have been happening,” — Michael Tannousis, Richmond County Republican Party Chairperson
- “This is a sad day for Staten Island, it’s a sad day for Staten Island politics, it’s a sad day for Staten Island constituents.” — Troy McGhie, Democratic Candidate for New York’s 11th Congressional District
What's Next: Community Response and Investigations
The Staten Island Democratic Party, alongside community leaders and representatives from the NAACP, has scheduled a press conference to address the implications of the leaked texts. They aim to foster a dialogue on hate speech and its consequences within the political landscape. The situation continues to unfold as local leaders call for accountability and a commitment to eradicating hate in all forms.
