Tearing apart my iMac 20" system to replace graphics card

I need to replace my graphics card.

We are stuck at pulling out the plug to the on/off button from the logic board. We can’t get it disconnected.

Aside from it hurting fingers. My husband tried to disconnect it & he said it is in there way to tight. He thought about pliers, but is afraid they may hurt something. He said there’s got to be a tool that can be used to pull it apart.

The spudger & prying tool are too weak, I’ve tried it. They break or tear. Any suggestions on a tool that can be used?

It’s on a table covered with a towel. I’m worried my cat will jump up there. Not that he will deliberately hurt something, but that he may consider it a great spot to nap. He’s 16 lbs of muscle & not careful!