CHELSEA — Video shows Rep. Ayanna Pressley walking past a reporter who attempts to ask her a question while filming on his phone outside Chelsea City Hall.

Before the question is answered, Pressley’s husband, Conan Harris, abruptly steps in and swats the phone away. Pressley continues walking without responding as the interaction unfolds on camera.

The reporter was attempting to ask Pressley about a high-profile federal investigation into alleged childcare and welfare fraud in Minnesota, a case that has drawn national scrutiny and political debate.

Caught on camera: Rep. Pressley’s (@RepPressley) ex-con millionaire husband knocks phone away from reporter mid-question

via @FoxNews pic.twitter.com/oyPXvne8vU

— Mass Daily News (@MassDailyNews) January 7, 2026

Harris, who previously served years in federal prison on drug trafficking charges, holds no official government or security role. The physical intervention was captured on video and has since circulated widely online.

Harris isn’t just a bystander either. The New York Post has previously reported that Pressley’s husband has amassed millions of dollars through consulting and real estate development work tied to Boston’s political orbit, raising eyebrows about how closely personal connections and public power can intersect. He has also been linked to lucrative dealings involving the City of Boston, a relationship that Mass Daily News first flagged amid questions about access, influence, and who really benefits behind the scenes. The cellphone slap may have gone viral — but critics say it’s just the latest flashpoint in a much bigger story.

This latest incident was first reported by Fox News.