Embattled NRA CEO and executive vice-president Wayne LaPierre announced on Friday that he will be stepping down from his position. The decision comes days before a New York civil suit is set to begin against LaPierre and other NRA executives. As of January 31st, the announcement ends a decades-long career that many think should have ended long ago.

Out With the Old: Wayne LaPierre to Resign his Position with the NRA

Wayne LaPierre will be stepping down on January 31st, 2023, ending his decades-long position with the NRA. His announcement comes days before a New York City civil trial is set to begin against LaPierre and others. The trial will focus on accusations of misappropriation of the organization’s funds. Specifically, he and other executives allegedly enjoyed luxury vacations and other perks at NRA members’ expense.

In a statement on NRA’s website, LaPierre said, “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.”

According to the National Rifle Association announcement, an interim CEO and EVP has already been selected. Following the departure of Wayne LaPierre, long-time NRA executive and Head of General Operations Andrew Arulanandam will step in temporarily.

The decision will hopefully weaken NYAG Leticia James’ attacks on the NRA, who vowed to dissolve the organization.

The NRA states, “With respect to the NYAG’s allegations, the NRA Board of Directors reports it has undertaken significant efforts to perform a self-evaluation, recommended termination of disgraced ‘insiders’ and vendors who allegedly abused the Association, and accepted reimbursement, with interest, for alleged excess benefit transactions from LaPierre, as reported in public tax filings.”

LaPierre said, “I am proud of the NRA’s advocacy in New York and, through it all, determination to defend the Second Amendment. I can assure you the NRA’s mission, programming, and fight for freedom have never been more secure.”

You Don’t Have to Go Home, But You Can’t Stay Here

In a Board of Directors meeting in Irving, Texas, today, NRA President Charles Cotton accepted LaPierre’s resignation. Reports indicate that he cited health reasons for his departure. As part of the organization’s announcement, Cotton expressed gratitude for his service:

“On behalf of the NRA Board of Directors, I thank Wayne LaPierre for his service. Wayne has done as much to protect Second Amendment freedom as anyone. Wayne is a towering figure in the fight for constitutional freedom, but one of his other talents is equally important: he built an organization that is bigger than him. Under the direction of Andrew Arulanandam, the NRA will continue to thrive – with a renewed energy in our business operations and grassroots advocacy. Our future is bright and secure.”

While the organization thanks LaPierre for his service, many members simply thank him for leaving.