The Young Republican Federation of Alabama is one of the state's strongest and most active conservative grassroots groups. Its members can routinely be found around the state hosting elected officials and candidates at their meetings, working to get out the vote, and providing networking and social opportunities to young Republicans.
In a Facebook post on Tuesday, current state chair Stephanie Petelos Nabavian announced that she is running for reelection, saying, "I’m thrilled to announce I am seeking reelection as State Chair of Young Republican Federation of Alabama!"
"It has been a BUSY two years, and I am so proud of the changes and progress this organization has made. I am running because I truly love this organization, know we will make a lasting impact, and most importantly, the people are passionate, motivated and a joy to work with! I have been in the YRs for many years, and I believe the group has never been as motivated, in sync, and dedicated. I’m so excited for the next two years and know we’ll accomplish so much!" she added.
Petelos Nabavian told 1819 News she's most proud of "[e]xpanding the organizations, creating new clubs, and the volunteer efforts during the election in the fall."
"I’m really proud of how much the board has improved and matured and how they’ve come together to focus on what’s important — electing good conservatives and mentoring the incoming GOP leaders," she added.
When asked what she credits with her success, she said, "I have some amazing officers and board members who made so much happen. Nate Butler just moved into the role of Vice Chair; he’s led numerous committees and was vital in mentoring and assisting new clubs. My communication director, Rayln McLaughlin, has done an incredible job improving our online presence and helping us promote and market our organization. My Executive Director is Vincent Wilhite; he also just took over the Birmingham club, and he’s been vital in helping me execute all our events. We have the best, most efficient treasurer, Eric Lee, who makes our lives easier. Our representatives to the National YRs are Jared Downing and Gracie Overstreet; they’re a huge help in helping liaison on national projects and taking on any special projects within the state. I’m running because I have an awesome board and they make managing the board so enjoyable.
We also have some incredible supporters and elected officials who are so helpful and kind to us. I could never list them all, but we have dozens of elected officials, speakers, venue hosts, donors and supporters who have made this first term possible."
Under Petelos Nabavian's leadership, the organization has seen increased membership and four new chapters, including Shelby County, Pickens County, Mobile County and Lee County.
They also had their first Legislative Day in almost a decade. According to the group's social media page, "We met with over a dozen elected officials, toured the Capitol building, got to see our legislators in action, and watched the Senate dominate in the annual House vs. Senate baseball game!"
Before being elected to her current position, Petelos Nabavian was the chair of the Greater Birmingham Young Republicans. Her website highlights, "Between her parents and her, the “Petelos” name has been on the ballot over 15 times. While attending Hoover High School, her father, Tony, served as mayor of Hoover, and her mother, Teresa, was a circuit judge."
ALGOP chairman John Wahl recently posted a photo with the YR group saying saying, "As the youngest Republican State Chairman in the country—and a YR myself—I know firsthand how important it is to have young conservatives engaged in the political process.
The work YRs do at the grassroots level is critical to building a strong future for our party, and I couldn’t be more proud of their dedication. Keep up the great work!"
For her next term, she says, "I hope to see each Congressional District charter 2-4 new clubs. We plan to work hard in growing our numbers and increasing engagement within local communities. A top priority is recruiting more volunteers to help during the next election cycle. We have got to find more young people interested in getting involved in the Republican Party and running for office."
The election will be held at the 2025 YRFA State Convention on May 30, 2025.
Apryl Marie Fogel is a Birmingham resident who frequently appears on, and guest hosts radio programs around the state. She can be reached at [email protected] or on X and Facebook at @aprylmarie.
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