Riley Gaines Joins America First’s Athletes Coalition as Vice Chair

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the America First Policy Institute (AFPI) announced former Division 1 Competitive Swimmer and 12-time NCAA All-American Riley Gaines joins AFPI as the Vice Chair of the Athletes for America coalition. Gaines, a national figure in the fight for fairness in women’s sports, has quickly become one of the country’s leading advocates for protecting women’s spaces. She has helped lead the righteous battle for fairness and opportunity, largely through life-saving work at the state level.

By joining AFPI, Gaines will strengthen the Athletes for America coalition, a powerful group of sports leaders dedicated to using their influence to help shape the future of the Nation and work closely with AFPI’s state chapters to rapidly expand America First policies at the state level. She will work alongside legendary Coach Lou Holtz and former NFL players Jack Brewer, Scott Turner, and Frank Murphy, each of whom are committed to using their platforms to champion the principles of the America First movement. As a fearless advocate, Gaines brings her athletic achievements and powerful message to the forefront, signaling AFPI’s commitment to empowering athletes to lead in their communities and across the country.

Her appointment marks a pivotal moment for the leadership team at AFPI, positioning her alongside some of the foremost female leaders in the America First movement. Gaines' voice will be crucial in advancing policies that not only uplift women but all Americans, driving change from grassroots activism to high-impact legislative efforts.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Athletes for America coalition as Vice Chair,” Riley Gaines said. “The values of fairness, faith, and dedication to protecting women’s sports align perfectly with my own. I look forward to working alongside this incredible team to advocate for the principles we all believe in and to make a positive impact in the world of sports and beyond. Together, we can drive meaningful change and ensure a brighter future for the next generation of athletes and Americans.”

Gaines’s activism intensified after a controversial experience competing against Lia Thomas, a biological male, at the 2022 NCAA Championships. Since then, Gaines has inspired many to challenge the policies of major sports organizations like the NCAA and IOC. She now works with a leading women's organization to uphold Title IX, defend women’s rights to single-sex spaces, and ensure fair opportunities. Gaines has also testified before various legislative bodies and spoken nationwide to support girls and women.

“Riley Gaines is a trailblazer and a role model for young women everywhere. Her passion and drive to fight for equality in women’s athletics is inspirational,” Brooke Rollins, President and CEO of AFPI, said. “We’re looking forward to having her help lead Athletes for America, and we are excited to officially welcome her to the AFPI family.”

“It's a true honor to have Riley join our team as Vice Chair of Athletes for America,” Chair of AFPI’s Athletes for America Frank Murphy said. “I’ve witnessed her incredible leadership in protecting women’s sports, her unwavering faith in God, and her commitment to family values. These principles align perfectly with the mission of Athletes for America. With her leadership, we are confident she will play a pivotal role in helping the America First Policy Institute achieve our goals and amplify our impact nationwide.”

“We are blessed to have someone with the talents and abilities of Riley Gaines join our team,” Legendary Coach Lou Holtz said. “She is someone who stands not for what is popular but for what is right, and America needs more of that.”