New York: Indian American candidates saw a mix of victories and setbacks in New York's June 23 primary elections, with some advancing to November contests while others saw their campaigns come to an end.
Among the most closely watched races was the Democratic primary for New York State Comptroller, where Indian American candidate Raj Goyle was defeated by longtime incumbent Thomas P. DiNapoli, New York's longest-serving statewide elected official.
Raj Goyle (Photo courtesy: Raj Goyle's campaign)
Facing his first primary challenge in years, DiNapoli secured a commanding victory over both Goyle and fellow challenger Drew Warshaw.
Following the loss, Goyle thanked supporters and reflected on a campaign focused on lowering utility costs and promoting responsible investment of the state's pension fund. He said the campaign fought for New Yorkers struggling with rising costs and advocated for pension investments in affordable housing, childcare, and critical infrastructure while opposing investments in fossil fuel companies, surveillance technology, and what he described as human rights abuses abroad.
Another high-profile defeat came in Queens, where Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar lost her bid for reelection in New York's Assembly District 38. Democratic Socialists of America-backed challenger David Orkin defeated Rajkumar by a decisive margin.
Rajkumar, who represented the district since 2021, made history as the first South Asian woman and first Hindu elected to New York State office. Her district includes Glendale, Ozone Park, Richmond Hill, Ridgewood, and Woodhaven. Her defeat came amid a strong showing by DSA-backed candidates across Queens.
In New York's 7th Congressional District Democratic primary, Indian American candidate Vichal Kumar, a public defender and son of Indian immigrants, finished fourth with less than 2 percent of the vote. The race was won by Queens Assemblymember Claire Valdez with approximately 58 percent support.
There was better news for Indian American candidates elsewhere in the state. Lisa Kaul, a Dutchess County legislator and India-born politician, won the Democratic primary in New York State Senate District 39. With 94 percent of votes counted, Kaul secured 62.1 percent of the vote, totaling 8,178 votes. Evan Menist finished second with 30.4 percent, while Gay Lee received 7.4 percent. Kaul will now challenge Republican incumbent Robert Rolison in the November general election.
The primary results underscored the growing presence of Indian Americans in New York politics, while also highlighting the increasingly competitive landscape they face as they seek elected office across the state.
