ATLANTA (AP) — Ja’Quan Stembridge, a 19-year-old political activist who earlier this year became one of the youngest elected leaders in the Georgia Republican Party, has resigned from his party position after allegations surfaced that he attempted to meet an underage boy.
Stembridge stepped down Nov. 29 from his role as assistant secretary of the Georgia Republican Party, according to party officials. His resignation followed the circulation of social media posts alleging that he exchanged text messages with someone he believed to be a minor and attempted to arrange an in-person meeting.
Georgia GOP Chairman Josh McKoon confirmed the resignation in a statement, saying the allegations were serious but emphasizing that they remain allegations. He said the party condemns any conduct involving the exploitation of minors while also acknowledging the principle that individuals are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise.
McKoon said the party has severed ties with Stembridge and will move forward with filling the vacant leadership position in accordance with party bylaws.
Stembridge, a University of North Georgia student from Greene County, gained statewide attention earlier this year when he was elected assistant secretary at the party’s state convention. At the time, he was praised for his youth engagement efforts and advocacy for increased participation by young conservatives.
Screenshots of alleged text messages and a video circulating online claim Stembridge was communicating with someone he believed to be a 14-year-old boy. The posts prompted swift backlash and calls for accountability across social media platforms.
Stembridge has not publicly commented on the allegations, and his attorney declined to issue a statement. It remains unclear whether law enforcement agencies are investigating the matter or if criminal charges will be filed.
Party officials said any further developments involving Stembridge are considered a personal matter and are not connected to official party activities.
