Long Island Mayor Faces Backlash Over Homophobic Comments

The mayor of Long Island is standing firm despite calls for his resignation following controversial remarks he made on social media regarding an animal rights activist and his wife. This situation has drawn the ire of fellow executives.

Mayor Tom Gardella of Sag Harbor Village ignited a storm of criticism last month with his reply to a video posted by Texas resident Rebecca Chavez. The video featured Chavez, her wife Deanna, and their dog dancing to Jon Secada’s “Just Another Day” from 1992.

In response to the video, Gardella commented, “What’s that behind you? Is it a man? A girl? Is it some kind of creature?”

Since taking office in July 2023, Gardella has been scrutinized and is currently under investigation for his remarks, yet he remains adamant about not stepping down. Reports suggest that he reiterated his stance during a recent board meeting.

During that meeting, Gardella firmly stated, “I have no intention of resigning as mayor. That’s not going to happen… I’m not a man running away from a crisis. I’m a man running into a crisis.” He expressed his hope of guiding the village through the situation and working collaboratively with the board.

After posting the video, Chavez, who is the CEO of Yacky Animal Rescue Center, recounted how some comments made her feel as if she was being compared to a “living thing or an object.” This realization compelled her to investigate further, which she described as “a little surreal.”

Chavez voiced that Gardella’s comments left his wife feeling “less than human.” As she delved deeper, she found that Gardella, who had served in the U.S. military during the Cold War, held the office of mayor.

She also discovered similarities between his Facebook page and a private Instagram account, leading her to reflect critically on his behavior.

Chavez commented, “This is a master class in pettiness and responsibility. If you’re going to say something hurtful, be prepared for the fallout.” She urged that, as an elected official and self-identified Christian, Gardella should uphold better standards of conduct.

Although Gardella, a former fire chief known for fighting a notable fire on Main Street in December 2016, did offer an apology for his remarks, Chavez remained skeptical about its authenticity. “They always apologize after the fact,” she asserted, deeming his apology insincere.

Local resident Erica-Lynn Huberty labeled Gardella’s apology as “disingenuous” and expressed disbelief at the situation, suggesting that he was merely remorseful for being exposed rather than for his comments.

Deputy Mayor Edward Hay condemned Gardella’s remarks, indicating they were “disparaging to members of the LGBT community.” He emphasized that Sag Harbor has a longstanding reputation as a welcoming village, and such comments understandably stirred concern within the community.