EXETER — PJ Pribula announced on Wednesday that he is stepping down as Chairman of the Luzerne County Republican Party, effective immediately.
“I let the executive committee know on Monday that I would be resigning as Chairman of the actual Luzerne County Republican Party,” Pribula said in a letter to “fellow Republicans and Luzerne County residents.” He added, “For two years, myself and my executive board have spent 90% of our time and resources battling the 10% because their twisted beliefs go against what our Republican Party stands for.
“I am honestly tired and disgusted by the struggle with visionaries that don’t understand and who bring disgrace to the party of Lincoln … they understand that if they are dishonest enough, noisy enough, rude enough and demanding enough, they will find a way in. Over the past few weeks, I have seen this group and their candidates gaining influence in ways I never would have thought possible and upon seeing that, I realize that it is my time to leave.”
Luzerne County GOP vice chair Joe Valenti also resigned on Wednesday, effective immediately. Pribula mentioned that the organization’s secretary, treasurer, financial secretary and the 120th District clerk have also resigned from the 11-member executive committee. He said the remaining five members will have to meet to elect a new Chair.
Pribula urged Republicans interested in running for the office of Republican Committee to “examine your conscience” before they vote for the next Republican Chairman.
“If you believe aggressive politics and intolerance is the best solution, then these are your candidates,” Pribula wrote. “But if not, I ask that you listen to the voices at the convention and select a chairman who will lead for the benefit of the party and not the 10%.”