A legal dispute has emerged between prominent MAGA supporter Lucian Wintrich and the New York Young Republican Club (NYYRC) following Wintrich's public criticism of the club's 2025 annual gala. The NYYRC has filed a defamation lawsuit against Wintrich, accusing him of branding the event "the worst event they've ever thrown" and alleging breach of contract and violation of a non-disclosure agreement.
Wintrich, known for his "Twinks4Trump" art show and past work as a White House correspondent, claims he was dissatisfied with the gala, citing issues such as tables being allegedly resold after guests had already purchased them. However, the NYYRC, through its lawyer Mark Luccarelli, has denied these allegations, calling them "not remotely true."
Further fueling Wintrich's discontent was the attendance of controversial figures, including influencer Empath Chan, who had previously faced backlash for a blackface costume and an X post perceived as a slur. Wintrich expressed his outrage over Chan's presence, which he communicated to the club.
Following his public criticism, Wintrich stated he received a cease-and-desist letter and was removed from his volunteer position as the club's press chairman. In response, Wintrich reportedly posted social media messages criticizing NYYRC members and the club's attorney.
The lawsuit also involves accusations made by Wintrich against NYYRC president Stefano Forte. Wintrich allegedly described Forte, who identifies as a "menswear enjoyer" and "cigar smoker," as an "idiot" in "Long Island pimp clothing." Additionally, Wintrich accused the NYYRC under Forte's leadership of funneling donations to a company that allegedly provided payouts to Forte. Luccarelli has strongly refuted these claims, calling the donor fraud accusation "invented from thin air" and stating that if Wintrich's criminal conduct accusations were true, he should provide details of a reported investigation by the New York Attorney General's Office.
Wintrich has indicated his intention to file counter-claims, asserting that the lawsuit has been personally and professionally harmful and is distracting him from his planned 2026 congressional campaign for New York's 12th district. He described his potential response as "an eye for an eye."
The conflict arises as the NYYRC is reportedly facing other public relations challenges. The club was previously addressing controversy surrounding its now-former treasurer, Nicholas T Rafael Jr., who was reported to have published antisemitic posts and used slurs online. The club has denied association with the alleged online activity and stated it is investigating the matter.
In his efforts to retaliate against the NYYRC, Wintrich is reportedly organizing a competing end-of-the-year gala. While Wintrich claimed journalist Matt Drudge would be the Master of Ceremonies for his "Blacklist Ball," Drudge has denied any involvement.
