Hochul Aide’s Sexual Harassment Claim Follows Prior Staff Misconduct Probe

New York Governor Kathy Hochul faces fresh scrutiny as her press secretary, Avi Small, was placed on leave following a sexual harassment allegation. Reports indicate Small had been investigated previously for berating junior staff, creating a climate of fear within the governor’s office. Sources reveal Small’s history of yelling at younger employees over minor errors, like press release typos or scheduling mishaps, left some staffers dreading collaboration with him.

An earlier probe, conducted by the governor’s HR team and an external law firm, examined Small’s conduct but found no formal violations. Yet, concerns lingered among staff, particularly when Small’s role expanded, increasing his oversight of junior team members. Some employees reportedly raised alarms about an incident where Small cornered a subordinate in a supply closet for questioning, though details remain murky.

The latest accusation stems from an alleged inappropriate touch during an Albany office retreat on June 16. Hochul’s administration acted swiftly, placing Small on leave, though questions persist about the transparency of prior investigations. Staffers reportedly sought clarity on the earlier probe’s outcome but were advised to stay silent.

When Hochul succeeded Andrew Cuomo in 2021, she pledged to eliminate toxic workplace dynamics, a promise now tested by these allegations. Her office has yet to comment publicly, leaving observers wondering how this scandal might ripple through Albany’s political corridors.