Wayne LaPierre, the longstanding leader of the National Rifle Association (NRA), announced his resignation Friday, Jan. 5, days before the start of a corruption trial in New York scrutinizing his leadership. LaPierre held the position of executive vice president and CEO at the NRA since 1991.
The effective date of his resignation is Jan. 31, and Andrew Arulanandam, the head of General Operations, will serve as the interim CEO.
LaPierre faces accusations of using over $64 million in cash from NRA donors, allegedly spending funds on personal trips and other expenses. In a statement accompanying his resignation, LaPierre expressed unwavering support for the NRA’s mission to defend Second Amendment freedom, stating, “My passion for our cause burns as deeply as ever.”
The 74-year-old cited health concerns in stepping down from his role, according to the NRA. The organization has encountered setbacks, experiencing a decline in both revenue and memberships. Despite the U.S. Supreme Court’s expansion of gun rights, the NRA shut down its online streaming network in 2019 and filed for bankruptcy in 2021, though the case was subsequently dismissed.
The NRA’s challenges continue as New York Attorney General Letitia James (D) prepares to initiate a lawsuit against the organization, Wayne LaPierre, and other executives on Monday, Jan. 8.
