The Indian American community in the tri-state New York area hosted a fundraiser January 4, 2026, in Queens to support Raj Goyle, Democratic Primary candidate for New York State Comptroller. The event was hosted by community members Dr. Thomas Abraham, Alex Esthappan, and Vim K. Goyal, a press release from organizers said.
The current incumbent Comptroller is Thomas DiNapoli who was first elected back in 2007. Another Democratic candidate running in the primary is Drew Warshaw an activist for affordable housing. The primaries are scheduled for June 23, 2026.
Organizers described the Goyle fundraiser as a “successful” event which brought together a broad cross-section of community leaders and supporters. The event exceeded its fundraising goal, raising more than $7,000, “a clear indication that the Raj Goyle for New York campaign is gaining strong momentum,” organizers added.
Attendees heard Goyle, a former Kansas State Assembly member, share his vision and priorities for the office of Comptroller.
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In his remarks, Goyle emphasized his commitment to accountability, innovation, and affordability in the management of New York State’s finances, with a strong focus on building a more transparent and effective state government.
Participants expressed confidence in his candidacy and optimism that he will prevail in the Democratic Primary—an especially consequential contest, as the Democratic Primary effectively determines the November election, according to organizers.
Apart from his other activities such as co-founding the Indian American Impact Project in 2017, Goyle founded Phone Free New York, which succeeded in achieving a ban on mobile devices in classrooms.
Goyle has a B.S. from Duke University, and a law degree from Harvard Law School. He is the co-CEO of Bodhala, a data company focusing on the legal industry.
The Office of the State Comptroller (osc.ny.gov) which overseas a multi-billion dollar budget, has the following responsibilities :
- Protecting taxpayer funds by uncovering waste, fraud and abuse.
- Managing the State pension fund.
- Administering the State retirement system.
- Returning millions in unclaimed funds.
- Providing independent fiscal oversight on State, New York City and local finances.
- Providing technical assistance and training to local government officials and school districts.
- Reviewing State contracts and payments, maintaining the State’s accounting system and administering the State payroll.