Jenifer Rajkumar Launches Campaign for NYC Comptroller Amid Growing Race
Democratic Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar is running for City Comptroller. She launched her campaign at an event in Woodside, Queens, attended by supporters.
Rajkumar, 42, shared her vision for the comptroller position during an interview on “Mornings On 1.” She aims to improve city finances and address rising living costs and civil rights issues. She stated, “As comptroller, you fix government inefficiency. That’s what I do. I fix things.”
Rajkumar emphasized her role as a watchdog for all branches of government. She believes the comptroller should oversee not just the mayor, but also the president, governor, and other officials that affect city finances. “I am the fiscal guardian of New York City,” she said.
Currently, Rajkumar represents New York’s 38th Assembly district. She competes with two other Democratic candidates, Justin Brannan and Mark Levine, in the June primary.
How does Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar plan to address economic challenges if elected as City Comptroller?
Interview with Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar on Her Campaign for City Comptroller
News Directory 3: Assemblywoman Rajkumar, you recently launched your campaign for City Comptroller in Woodside, Queens, attended by many supporters. Can you share what motivated you to run for this position?
Rajkumar: Absolutely. I’m running for City Comptroller because I believe we need a strong fiscal guardian for New York City, especially in these challenging times. Rising living costs and government inefficiencies are pressing issues that affect our residents daily. As Comptroller, I’ll ensure that our city spends taxpayer money wisely and addresses these challenges head-on.
News Directory 3: You mentioned your role as a watchdog for all branches of government. Can you elaborate on that?
Rajkumar: Yes, I believe that oversight is crucial. The Comptroller must oversee not just the mayor but also the governor, president, and any other officials impacting our city’s finances. I see the Comptroller’s office as the people’s advocate—a position dedicated to holding government accountable and identifying areas where we can improve efficiency and transparency.
News Directory 3: Your vision includes tackling civil rights issues and fiscal management. How do you plan to integrate these concerns into your work?
Rajkumar: They are interconnected. Fiscal responsibility allows us to allocate resources effectively, which can directly address civil rights issues. My approach will focus on ensuring our budgets reflect our values, prioritizing equity and inclusivity in our spending. The auditing powers of the Comptroller will play a crucial role in identifying wasteful spending that could be redirected toward programs that support marginalized communities.
News Directory 3: You mentioned your strong partnership with Mayor Eric Adams. Do you believe this relationship will impact your campaign?
Rajkumar: I certainly hope so. I have built strong partnerships across government. Our working relationship has been constructive, and I believe that my experience collaborating with Mayor Adams can help bridge gaps and bring about effective solutions for our city.
News Directory 3: You face competition in the upcoming Democratic primary from Justin Brannan and Mark Levine. How do you assess your standing in the race?
Rajkumar: I feel confident about our progress. Our kickoff event drew hundreds of supporters, and I have raised more money than any other candidate so far. This grassroots support speaks volumes about our campaign’s momentum, and I believe it shows that the community believes in my vision for New York City.
News Directory 3: As the campaign progresses, what are your immediate goals?
Rajkumar: My immediate goal is to connect with as many New Yorkers as possible—listening to their concerns and sharing my plan to make New York City more affordable and efficient. I want to solidify my position as a candidate who genuinely understands the needs of our city’s residents and is ready to work tirelessly to address them.
News Directory 3: Thank you for sharing your insights, Assemblywoman Rajkumar. We look forward to following your campaign.
Rajkumar: Thank you for having me. I’m excited to continue this journey and serve the people of New York City!
It is unclear if Mayor Eric Adams will support Rajkumar. They share a close working relationship, and she feels their partnership remains strong despite challenges in his administration. “I built partnerships across government. That helps me get things done,” she said.
Rajkumar highlighted the importance of the comptroller’s auditing powers. She aims to identify waste in city agencies and improve efficiency to make the city more affordable.
As the campaign intensifies, Rajkumar expressed confidence in her progress. “I raised more money than any other candidate,” she noted, and her kickoff event attracted hundreds from across the city. She is pleased with the growing support for her campaign.