Vermont Senator Faces Calls for Resignation Over Racist Group Chat Comments

Montpelier, Vermont — Vermont’s political leaders are demanding the resignation of Republican state Senator Samuel Douglass after he was linked to offensive comments made in a private chat group. The scandal erupted on Tuesday following the leak of racist, sexist, and antisemitic messages among young Republican leaders.

Douglass, who represents the Northeast Kingdom, was mentioned in a chat where participants made derogatory remarks about women and used approving references to Adolf Hitler. In one instance, Douglass responded to a description of a woman as a ‘very obese Indian woman’ by saying, ‘She just didn’t bathe often.’

His wife, Brianna Douglass, also involved in the Vermont Young Republicans, was quoted making an antisemitic remark referring to a Jewish colleague, stating, ‘you’re giving nationals too much credit and expecting the Jew to be honest.’

In a statement issued Wednesday, Douglass apologized for his comments, emphasizing they do not reflect his character. ‘I have cut all ties with those involved,’ he stated, condemning the comments made by others in the group.

Calls for his resignation have come from both sides of the political spectrum. Governor Phil Scott described the remarks as ‘disgusting and unacceptable’, insisting that those involved must resign immediately. Senate leaders echoed this sentiment, with Democrat Phil Baruth stating that such ‘ugliness and bigotry’ must be addressed.

Douglass, who is a crisis interventionist and real estate agent, has been in the Senate since 2024, after succeeding a longtime incumbent Democrat. If he resigns, Governor Scott would be able to appoint a replacement for the remaining term.

This situation raises significant questions about the political climate in Vermont and its alignment with broader national issues of racism and intolerance.