Wayne LaPierre, the longstanding CEO of the National Rifle Association (NRA) since 1991, has made a shocking announcement of his resignation. This move comes at a crucial time as LaPierre faces allegations from New York Attorney General Letitia James. He is accused of violating laws and misusing NRA funds for personal gain. LaPierre, expressing his continued support for the NRA, stated his resignation in an NRA press release.
NRA EVP Wayne LaPierre Announces Resignation from NRA
The National Rifle Association of America (NRA) announced today that Executive Vice President Wayne LaPierre announced he is stepping down from his position as chief executive of the organization, effective January 31.… pic.twitter.com/GbGBWktu7C
— NRA (@NRA) January 5, 2024
According to NRA President Charles Cotton, LaPierre, 74, cited health reasons for his decision. The announcement was made at a board meeting in Irving, Texas. LaPierre’s resignation will be effective from January 31st, with Andrew Arulanandam stepping in as interim CEO and Executive Vice President.
Cotton praised LaPierre for his significant contributions to defending Second Amendment rights and building a robust organization. He expressed confidence in Arulanandam’s ability to lead the NRA towards a bright future.
The press release also addressed the upcoming lawsuit by the New York Attorney General, with LaPierre being a defendant. The trial is set to begin soon, amid a backdrop of membership decline and financial struggles within the NRA.
1. Thank God
2. Why do y’all think he’s resigning? Plea deal in NY? Forced out due to tremendous drop in funds? Finally had enough $3K suits paid for by members? 🤨#nra #Finally #WayneLapierre @NRA pic.twitter.com/o2OBsBUFZN
— Mrgunsngear (@Mrgunsngear) January 5, 2024
Commentators like Mrgunsngear from LouderWithCrowder Studios and Libertarian Nicholas Sarwark, referencing The New York Times, have speculated on LaPierre’s motives, pointing to possible legal strategies, financial issues, and a significant drop in membership and revenue. Sarwark highlighted a notable decrease in NRA membership and soaring legal costs, underlining the organization’s challenges.
“Membership has plummeted from nearly six million five years ago to 4.2 million today. Revenue is down 44 percent since 2016, according to internal audits, and legal costs have soared to tens of millions a year.”https://t.co/qf2Kfr0ocX
— Nicholas Sarwark (@nsarwark) January 5, 2024