Wood County Young Republicans

Young Republican Historical Perspective

The Young Republicans are the oldest political youth organization in the United States. The first organized effort of the Young Republicans began in New York City in 1859; three years after the Republican Party selected its first presidential candidate. A year later, the YRs played a critical role in helping elect President Lincoln.

In 1931 the YRs were organized nationally. West Point graduate George H. Olmsted began to attract the attention of the leaders of the national Republican Party, and he was invited to meet with President Herbert Hoover at the White House.

President Hoover, so impressed with his visit with Olmsted, asked the young man to head the Young Republican division of the Republican Party, which Olmsted accepted. In 1935, the Young Republican division officially became the Young Republican National Federation, and Olmsted was elected the first president of our national organization.

Taking the Next Step Forward

(Left to Right): Carrie Bentley - WV YR National Committee Woman, Holly Burnside, Rocky Peck - WCYR Vice-Chairman, Michelle Howerton - WCYR Secretary, Mike Howerton - WCYR Chairman, Jeremy Taitt - WCYR Treasurer, Ashley Stinnett, WV YR Chairman

The YRs have a solid record of producing future Republican Party leaders - including Governors, Senators, Congressmen, nationally recognized campaign consultants, and community leaders.

The Wood County Young Republicans are looking forward to working with all of you to build a successful organization for young adults here in Wood County.

A group of likeminded individuals, in which we will provide essential grassroots support for our Republican candidates and conservative issues, produce future Republican Party leaders, and provide a great opportunity for interaction among members that allows for the exchange of ideas, networking, and friendships that will last a lifetime.

Through recruiting, training and mobilizing people, the YRs present opportunities for ordinary people to do extraordinary things. Through community involvement in political issues, charitable projects, and participation in political campaigns, the YRs will work to improve our community.

The YRs will provide different opportunities for different people. No matter what your long-term goals maybe, the YRs will serve as the building blocks for a successful future here in Wood County.