US EditionHochul's Press Secretary Placed on Leave over Sexual Harassment Allegations
- New York Governor Kathy Hochul's press secretary, Avi Small, was placed on administrative leave on July 2, 2025, amid sexual harassment allegations involving another staff member.
- The allegations stem from an incident on June 16 at McGeary's Pub in Albany, which followed a staff retreat attended by the governor's team, prompting an internal investigation and suspension.
- Small began working with Hochul's team soon after she took office in August 2021, was elevated to press secretary in mid-2023, and the ongoing investigation is being handled by external legal counsel.
- Anthony Hogrebe, communications director for Governor Hochul, confirmed that once a grievance was reported within the Executive Chamber, the involved employee was promptly put on leave; Governor Hochul emphasizes a strict policy against any form of misconduct.
- Hochul’s administration, which instituted strong workplace protections and mandatory anti-harassment training, continues the investigation, underlining that the inquiry remains open with no further comment available.
15 Articles
15 Articles
Hochul suspends press secretary, NYT reports
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEXSTAR) — As originally reported by the New York Times, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul placed her press secretary, Avi Small, on administrative leave. The suspension followed an allegation that Small inappropriately touched another male staffer, according to two sources familiar with the matter who spoke to The Times. A request for comment from Small went unanswered as of Thursday afternoon. Nor did Hochul's camp confirm the story, th…
Gov. Hochul’s Press Secretary Placed on Leave Over Sexual Harassment Claim
(Albany, NY) – Avi Small, press secretary to New York Governor Kathy Hochul, has been placed on administrative leave — following a sexual harassment complaint made by a female staff member. The alleged incident occurred during a June 16 staff gathering at McGeary’s Pub in Albany. The governor’s office confirmed Small’s suspension was effective as of June 25, pending an internal investigation. In a statement, the administration reiterated its “ze…
Hochul’s Aide Suspended Over Sexual Harassment Charge
The press secretary for New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has been placed on administrative leave amid allegations he sexually harassed another staff member, Politico reported Wednesday. The press aide, Avi Small, has been removed from his position at least temporarily after accusations he inappropriately touched another of the governor's employees last month in a bar in Albany, according to a witness granted anonymity to speak on the matter. Spokesman…
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