In a significant move, Queens Democratic State Assembly Member Jenifer Rajkumar has officially declared her candidacy for City Comptroller, launching her campaign website recently. As an ally of Mayor Eric Adams, Rajkumar will enter a competitive election against notable figures like Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, who has already signaled his intentions to run, alongside City Council Finance Chair Justin Brannan and Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, among others.
Rajkumar’s candidacy has been on the radar for several months. In a concise video featured on her new campaign site, she shared her motivations, saying, “I am running for those New Yorkers who work 25 hours a day, eight days a week, and still can’t afford life-saving healthcare or quality education.”
Rajkumar becomes the first candidate to formally announce her bid for City Comptroller. Levine has also been eyeing the position, having filed the necessary paperwork to transition his fundraising efforts from his role as Borough President to a potential Comptroller campaign. Nonetheless, speculation persists that Levine might opt to seek re-election as Borough President instead.
If Levine does decide to officially launch his campaign for Comptroller, he notes his strategy will prioritize highlighting his accomplishments as Borough President without engaging in negative attacks against competitors. He takes pride in his record, which includes supporting the city during the COVID-19 pandemic, advocating for legal assistance for tenants at risk of eviction, and addressing affordable housing challenges.
The City Comptroller plays a crucial role in managing the city’s financial matters and serves as a critical check on the mayor’s authority. Given Rajkumar’s close ties with Adams, this relationship has sparked curiosity among political observers. In a recent interview after announcing her exploratory committee, Rajkumar mentioned, “New Yorkers don’t like to see their leaders in conflict or fighting.”
In addition to Levine, other potential candidates like Brannan and Reynoso have been mentioned. However, Reynoso recently clarified his intention to remain focused on his current role and seek re-election as Brooklyn Borough President. Meanwhile, news of Levine’s ambitions for the Comptroller position emerges as City Council Majority Leader Keith Powers has also expressed interest in running for Manhattan Borough President.
