Raj Goyle, a Democratic activist and former Kansas state legislator, has officially launched his campaign for the 2026 New York State Comptroller election. Goyle, 50, is challenging incumbent Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, who has held the office since 2007. Goyle is seeking the Democratic Party’s endorsement to run in the primary.
Background and Political Experience
Goyle served in the Kansas House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011. He was the Democratic nominee for Kansas’s 4th congressional district in 2010. After relocating to New York City, Goyle co-founded Bodhala, a legal-tech company, and later became co-chair of the 5BORO Institute, a New York City policy organization. In 2024, he founded Phone Free New York, successfully advocating for a statewide ban on student cellphone use during school hours.
Campaign Platform
Goyle’s campaign focuses on progressive reforms, including:
- Aggressive oversight of the state’s $280 billion pension fund
- Investing in affordable housing projects
- Combating healthcare overbilling and fraud
- Reevaluating investments in Israel Bonds amid the Gaza conflict
He criticizes DiNapoli for being a passive officeholder and pledges to bring a more assertive approach to the Comptroller’s office. Goyle also questions DiNapoli’s outdated use of technology, highlighting reports that DiNapoli does not use a computer or email.
Primary Challenge
Goyle faces competition in the Democratic primary from Drew Warshaw, an affordable housing nonprofit executive. DiNapoli, despite being well-liked and having over $600,000 in campaign funds, now faces his most serious electoral test since taking office. The primary election is scheduled for June 2026, with the general election set for November 3, 2026.
