Young Republicans of Texas


The Young Republicans of Texas is a political youth group based in Texas. It serves as the official youth auxiliary club of the Republican Party of Texas. Founded in 2023, the organization was formed following a split from the state's previous youth wing, the Texas Young Republican Federation. This separation led to a lawsuit over trademark dispute, which was ultimately resolved by a state appellate court in 2024.

History

Prior to late 2023, the Republican Party of Texas was affiliated with the Texas Young Republican Federation. After a disagreement between leadership, a group separated away to form the Young Republicans of Texas. In September 2023, the State Republican Executive Committee voted to recognize the Young Republicans of Texas as the organization's official youth affiliate. The formation was publicly acknowledged by state officials, including Attorney General Ken Paxton.

Legal disputes

Shortly after YRT's formation, the TYRF filed a lawsuit in Dallas County alleging trademark infringement, arguing that the defendants used the "Young Republicans" name without authorization. A district court initially granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) against YRT.
The defendants sought dismissal under the Texas Citizens Participation Act, the state's anti-SLAPP statute protecting free speech. In August 2024, the Fifth [Court of Appeals of Texas] reversed the lower court's decision and dismissed the claims, citing the failure of plaintiffs to meet the necessary burden of proof.

Political positions

The organization has distinguished itself through policy stances on federal immigration and labor issues. In August 2025, YRT announced it would withhold endorsements from national candidates who supported the H-1B visa program. Later in November, the group publicly urged the presidential administration to end the Optional Practice Training program, arguing that the program was negatively affecting young American workers.

2025 controversy

In October 2025, Politico reported that several leaders within the Young Republican National Federation had shared racist and homophobic messages in a private group chat. This situation was later dubbed the "Young Republican group chat leak". While the YRNF issued a public statement condemning the messages, the Young Republicans of Texas declined to issue a similar condemnation when asked on X. Spectrum News analyzed differing responses as part of a broader shift in political messaging by youth organizations.