Petition Battles Intensify in New York City Public Advocate Race

Challenges to petition signatures are a usual part of the voting process in New York, impacting candidates at all government levels. To get on the ballot, candidates are required to gather a specific number of valid signatures, which are often contested. These contests are standard during elections and help ensure that candidates comply with legal standards and that the election process remains just.

In the contest for Public Advocate, candidates Angela Aquino, Marty Dolan, and Theo Chino have encountered issues with their petition signatures. Such issues are common in tight races since any candidate or individual can launch these challenges to confirm the signatures’ validity. Candidates typically gather more signatures than necessary to prepare for any that may be invalid.

Aquino, who is running for Public Advocate, voiced her displeasure regarding the petition challenges, especially those raised by the campaign of Jennifer Rajkumar. She believes her petitions show widespread support from the people of New York. Aquino claimed that the challenges to her petitions were an attempt to weaken her campaign. In reaction to these challenges, Aquino staged a protest featuring a mannequin in a red dress bearing Rajkumar’s image. She termed Rajkumar as “anti-democratic” and made personal accusations, suggesting she is an escort and insinuating that she is involved with Mayor Eric Adams.

In light of the protest and the inappropriate personal remarks, Rajkumar replied, “We need to progress past personal attacks and political tactics. My focus is on shaping the Public Advocate’s office into a legal authority that advocates for working individuals, holds the government accountable, and guarantees that every New Yorker receives necessary services. This campaign centers around these issues — not trivial politics. “

With the primary election nearing, the emphasis on petition challenges exposes the pressure and examination candidates encounter in New York City politics. Regardless of the disputes, the petition process remains a critical step in promoting fair competition and maintaining the ballot’s integrity.