Petition Challenges Stir Controversy as Public Advocate Candidate React

Petition challenges are a routine aspect of New York’s electoral process, affecting candidates across all levels of government. To qualify for the ballot, candidates must collect a number of valid signatures, frequently subject to challenges. These challenges are a normal part of elections, ensuring that candidates meet legal requirements and that the electoral process is fair.

In the race for Public Advocate, candidates Angela Aquino, Marty Dolan, and Theo Chino have faced challenges to their petition signatures. These challenges are common in competitive races, as any candidate or individual can initiate them to verify the validity of signatures. It is typical for candidates to collect more signatures than required to account for any disqualified ones.

Aquino, a candidate for Public Advocate, expressed frustration with the petition challenges, particularly those initiated by Jennifer Rajkumar’s campaign. She maintains that her petitions reflect broad support from New Yorkers. Aquino argued that the petition challenges were part of an effort to undermine her campaign. In response to the challenges, Aquino held a protest that included a mannequin dressed in a red dress with Rajkumar’s picture on it. She accused Rajkumar of being “anti-democratic” and made personal allegations, calling her an escort and implying she is Mayor Eric Adams’ mistress.

Responding to the protest and the demeaning personal attacks, Rajkumar stated, “We must move beyond personal attacks and political games. I’m focused on transforming the Public Advocate’s office into a legal watchdog that fights for working people, holds the government accountable, and ensures every New Yorker gets the services they need. That’s what this campaign is about — not petty politics.”

As the primary election approaches, the focus on petition challenges highlights the tension and scrutiny candidates face in New York City politics. Despite the controversy, the petition process remains a foundational step in ensuring fair competition and upholding the integrity of the ballot.