NEW YORK, NY – Katie Brennan, an executive director in New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration, publicly criticized New Jersey First Lady Tammy Murphy. Brennan accused Murphy of failing to support her following her assault allegation against an aide in Governor Phil Murphy’s campaign.
Brennan, who oversees storm recovery, homes, and communities in New York, expressed disappointment in Tammy Murphy’s response to her situation. “Tammy Murphy should not be a sitting senator for New Jersey,” Brennan stated to The New York Post in an article published this week, reflecting on her expectation of empathy from Murphy, which she felt was not met.
The controversy stems from a 2018 incident during Phil Murphy’s gubernatorial campaign. Brennan, a former volunteer and employee in the Murphy administration, alleged she was raped by Albert Alvarez, a fellow campaign staffer. Despite her allegations, no criminal charges were filed against Alvarez, though he was removed from his position when the accusation became public.
In 2020, Brennan reached a $1 million settlement with the state of New Jersey and Phil Murphy’s campaign, resolving claims that her rape allegations were mishandled.
This story was first made public in the New York Post.
The case prompted a legislative review in New Jersey, leading to new laws for handling such claims. Despite these developments, Brennan remains unconvinced of Tammy Murphy’s suitability for public office. “I do not believe she has proven herself,” Brennan remarked, underscoring her dissatisfaction with Murphy’s response to her ordeal.
Brennan’s remarks come amid Tammy Murphy’s Senate candidacy, following the indictment of Senator Robert Menendez on federal bribery charges. The situation highlights ongoing tensions and the complex interplay of politics and personal experiences in public service.