Maria Montano has resigned from her role as communications director for Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey, a position she had held since February 2022 and which marked a historic milestone as she was the first openly transgender woman in such a role. The resignation follows Montano's involvement with a political petition aimed at cutting ties with businesses associated with Israel, which has raised legal challenges. Mayor Gainey stated that Montano's departure was her own decision and reaffirmed his administration's commitment to supporting employees' rights to express their political beliefs. There is currently uncertainty regarding who will replace Montano in this key position. Her resignation adds to the questions surrounding the administration's communication strategies moving forward.