Jumaane Williams wins reelection primary as NYC public advocate
NEW YORK — Public Advocate Jumaane Williams handily won Tuesday’s Democratic primary, virtually guaranteeing he will be reelected in November for a second term as the city’s chief ombudsman.
With 31 percent of votes counted, preliminary returns from the New York City Board of Elections had Williams up 72-18 over state Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar, who waged an aggressive challenge and slightly outraised the incumbent. That hefty lead prompted NY1 to call the race for the incumbent shortly after the polls closed.
Throughout the campaign, Williams found himself bombarded with frequent and sometimes outlandish attacks from Rajkumar, who had initially planned to run for comptroller before dropping down to the public advocate race. The state lawmaker released several cartoons depicting Williams in an unflattering light and falsely claimed the incumbent slept until noon. The latter insult was lifted from New York City Mayor Eric Adams, a frequent foe of Williams and close ally of Rajkumar.
The public advocate has few official functions and has traditionally served as a stepping stone to higher office. Officeholders can introduce legislation in the City Council and serve as a check on the executive branch through the bully pulpit.
https://www.politico.com/news/2025/06/24/jumaane-williams-wins-reelection-primary-as-nyc-public-advocate-00422494