Mother from mud hut in India, Jenifer Rajkumar runs for NYC’s comptroller post
Jenifer Rajkumar, a 41-year-old Indian-American Democrat from Queens, has officially announced her run for New York City’s comptroller’s post.
The New York State Assemblywoman made the announcement through a campaign video and the launch of her campaign website. In the video posted on X, she shared that her mother was born in a mud-hut in India and her parents came to New York with only $300 and one suitcase.
Rajkumar, the first Punjabi-American elected to New York state office, is a close ally of Mayor Eric Adams. She is known for her signature red dress and frequent appearances alongside Mayor Adams.
Rajkumar emphasised her commitment to improving the lives of New Yorkers.
“I’m in it for the New Yorkers who toil 25 hours a day, eight days a week, and can’t afford life-saving health care or quality education. Government inefficiency costs lives. As Comptroller, I’m going to stand up for the people of this city. I will make sure every tax dollar benefits the taxpayer. I’m in it to fix this,” she said in her campaign video posted on X.
The comptroller is the top financial officer of New York City and sees to its fiscal health.
THE OTHER CONTENDERS FOR NYC’S COMPTROLLER POST
Rajkumar’s bid for comptroller comes as incumbent Brad Lander prepares to challenge Mayor Adams in the 2025 Democratic mayoral primary.
She is expected to face competition from Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, who has signalled interest in the position.
“I’m just proud of my own record, having helped the city get through COVID, having passed the right to counsel for tenants facing eviction, having really been a bold voice on affordable housing, now as borough president, and I’m going to continue to lead for New Yorkers,” Levine was quoted as saying by the New York Post.
City Council Finance Chair Justin Brannan is also rumoured to be eyeing the position. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso was also rumoured to be interested in the role but has decided to seek re-election as borough president instead.
Meanwhile, Manhattan City Councilman Keith Powers has announced his intention to run for borough president.
JENIFER’S APPROACH TO COMPTROLLER ROLE
Rajkumar’s close relationship with Mayor Adams has raised questions about how she would approach the comptroller role, traditionally seen as a foil to the mayor.
However, she emphasised her commitment to collaboration and improving government efficiency.
“I am on the ground with the people in every corner of this city hearing first-hand how the government is and isn’t working for them,” she said. “Together, we will implement ‘the people’s audits’ of city government.”
The primary election for the comptroller position is set for June 2025.