Stefano Forte has officially taken the helm as the 77th President of the New York Young Republican Club (NYYRC), ushering in a bold new chapter for the storied organization. A rising star in New York conservative politics, Forte’s journey from grassroots activism to the presidency is as compelling as it is symbolic of the club’s resurgence on the political stage.
Forte’s connection with the club began at a pivotal moment in the city’s cultural landscape—during a rally to preserve the statue of President Theodore Roosevelt outside the American Museum of Natural History. It was there that he first met Gavin Wax, the club’s former president, whose leadership would go on to shape both the club and Forte’s future. Over the years, Forte climbed the ranks, taking on increasingly influential roles within the organization—from Executive Secretary to Vice President—and even launching the club’s first borough caucus in Queens.
As president, Forte inherits a club that has been dramatically revitalized. Under Wax’s leadership, the NYYRC rose from a period of historically low engagement to become one of the most dynamic and politically active Republican organizations in the nation. Membership surged to nearly 1,800, media visibility skyrocketed, and the club established a firm presence not only across New York City but into neighboring states—earning the support of high-profile figures, including President Donald J. Trump.
With Wax transitioning to the role of Chairman, he will remain an influential presence within the club while focusing on other ventures and celebrating a new addition to his family. His tenure is widely credited with transforming the NYYRC into a political powerhouse—an achievement that now sets the stage for Forte’s ambitious next steps.
“I’m honored to build on the incredible foundation laid by Gavin Wax,” Forte stated. “This isn’t just about keeping the momentum going; it’s about taking things to the next level.”
Forte’s goals as president are as strategic as they are visionary: increase the club’s membership beyond 2,000, expand borough caucuses to deepen local engagement, and empower Republican candidates to secure electoral victories throughout New York City and beyond.
Christopher Reid, Chairman of the NYYRC’s Bronx Caucus, summed it up with striking clarity: “Stefano Forte’s rise is not just a win for the club—it’s a warning shot to the establishment. I’ve seen what happens when he sets things in motion. It’s fast. It’s effective. This isn’t business as usual. New York is about to change the game in conservative politics.”
New York City Councilwoman Inna Vernikov, who represents District 48, also offered high praise. “Stefano Forte is the ideal choice to follow Gavin Wax as president,” she said. “Many across this city talk a big game, but the NYYRC actually shows up and does the hard work for campaigns. It’s the only organization of its kind in New York that’s engaged in party-building year-round.”
With a solid team behind him, growing grassroots enthusiasm, and increasing attention from both the media and political operatives, Stefano Forte’s presidency arrives at a turning point not just for the NYYRC—but for the broader conservative movement in New York City.
The question now is not whether the red wave will continue—but how far and wide it will reach under his leadership.
Photos provided by the NYYRC Campaigns Committee.
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