Controversial NRA Head Wayne LaPierre Resigns

IRVING, TX – The National Rifle Association of America announced the resignation of Executive Vice President Wayne LaPierre from his role as chief executive, effective January 31. Andrew Arulanandam, a longstanding NRA executive and Head of General Operations, will step into the role of interim CEO & EVP.

LaPierre expressed his resignation with pride, stating, “With pride in all that we have accomplished, I am announcing my resignation from the NRA. I’ve been a card-carrying member of this organization for most of my adult life, and I will never stop supporting the NRA and its fight to defend Second Amendment freedom. My passion for our cause burns as deeply as ever."

During a NRA Board of Directors meeting held in Irving, Texas, NRA President Charles Cotton acknowledged and accepted LaPierre’s resignation. LaPierre cited health reasons for his decision, amidst the ongoing legal battle with the New York Attorney General (NYAG). The NYAG initiated a lawsuit in August 2020, seeking to dissolve the NRA, with LaPierre named as an individual defendant. Trial proceedings are scheduled to commence on Monday.

In March 2022, the NRA achieved a significant legal victory when a New York court dismissed the NYAG’s attempt to dissolve the organization. The court's opinion supported the NRA’s stance, asserting that the NYAG's efforts contradicted common sense, New York law, and the First Amendment. The NRA affirms its commitment to good governance, having conducted a self-evaluation, terminated individuals and vendors implicated in alleged abuses, and reimbursed LaPierre for purported excess benefit transactions, as disclosed in public tax filings.

LaPierre emphasized his pride in the NRA’s advocacy in New York, asserting that the organization's mission, programming, and fight for freedom remain robust. He expressed confidence in the NRA's professional team, members' support, and the leadership of Andrew Arulanandam, who has been a key collaborator for decades.

NRA President Charles Cotton thanked Wayne LaPierre for his service, acknowledging his significant contributions to protecting Second Amendment freedom. Cotton highlighted LaPierre's role in building an organization that surpasses any individual, expressing optimism for the NRA's future under the leadership of Andrew Arulanandam with renewed energy in business operations and grassroots advocacy.