Vermont GOP Leaders Further Distance from Freshman State Senator Following Apology for Leaked Group Chat
Vermont’s Republican leadership has further distanced itself from freshman State Senator Sam Douglass following his apology related to derogatory remarks in a leaked group chat. Governor Phil Scott called for Douglass’s resignation after a Politico report highlighted exchanges with racist and antisemitic content among Young Republicans.
Republican Leaders Denounce Senator Sam Douglass
Governor Phil Scott, during a press conference, urged for better conduct within the Young Republicans, stating, “Be good people.” This reaction follows the exposure of offensive messages circulated by Senator Sam Douglass and others in a national group chat. Despite bipartisan demands for his resignation, Douglass, 27, remains in office.
Details of the Group Chat
- Douglass and others were involved in exchanges with racial and antisemitic slurs.
- Insults included references to Black people as “the watermelon people.”
- One member praised Hitler, while jokes about violence towards opponents were made.
Douglass claimed limited involvement, suggesting his participation was primarily procedural. He stated periods passed without checking the chat and decried the remarks as unrepresentative of his views.
Reactions Across the Political Spectrum
Republican leaders from around Vermont, including GOP Chair Paul Dame, labeled the discourse as “shocking” and “grotesque.” Senator Sam Douglass has been removed from his state-party duties pending this matter’s resolution. Paul Dame noted that although Douglass’s words were not directly bigoted, his conduct has tarnished the party’s image.
Douglass’s Professional and Political Standing
Sam Douglass, a mental health professional and real estate agent, gained office with backing from Scott and the GOP, defeating Democrat Katherine Sims with over 2,200 votes. His victory was pivotal during the 2024 elections, which saw Republicans reduce Democrats’ legislative supermajority.
Lamoille County Mental Health Services, his employer, is reviewing the situation internally. The organization emphasizes its commitment to supporting individuals across all backgrounds.
Gov. Scott, who endorsed Douglass, removed images supporting Douglass from his social media following the revelations. He reaffirmed a zero-tolerance stance on the language reported, emphasizing that such statements have no place in society.
As the situation develops, Douglass is considering options that align with the interests of his family and constituents, promising a statement soon. Meanwhile, political figures and organizations react strongly against any form of hate speech.
