NYS Comptroller Tom DiNapoli faces primary challenge from advocate supporting school phone restrictions

Raj Goyle Challenges Tom DiNapoli in 2026 Election

Democratic activists who played a crucial role in the state’s mobile phone ban in schools have now set their sights on challenging state secretary Tom DiNapoli in the upcoming 2026 election.

Raj Goyle, the founder of Group Phone Free New York, is considering a serious run against DiNapoli, who has held his position since 2007 and gained a full term in 2010.

At 50, Goyle has described DiNapoli as someone who simply “goes along to get along” among fellow Democrats, emphasizing that what the party needs now are real fighters.

Goyle, a lawyer and tech executive, previously served in the Kansas House and ran for Congress, but lost to Republican Mike Pompeo. He’s also known for his tenure as Secretary of State in the first Trump administration.

After reading a profile of DiNapoli in Politico, Goyle joked about the secretary’s lack of technological engagement, noting that to contact him, one must go through his assistant.

Importantly, Goyle is not the only Democrat challenging DiNapoli; Drew Warshaw, an executive from an affordable housing nonprofit, announced his candidacy earlier in May.

However, taking down DiNapoli will be challenging. With over $600,000 in campaign funds, he’s considered a strong political figure. Plus, fellow Democrat and governor Kathy Hochul is also up for reelection next year.

Goyle believes he could be more proactive in utilizing the office’s resources to support New Yorkers.

Interestingly, as the state’s top officer overseeing a massive $280 billion pension fund, Goyle mentioned his intent to explore investments in affordable housing projects in New York.

Additionally, he has expressed a commitment to combatting waste and fraud wherever he sees it, particularly in the healthcare sector and other industries impacting New Yorkers’ jobs.

On another note, Goyle highlighted DiNapoli’s significant investments in Israeli bonds, expressing frustration with his stance considering recent conflicts arising from the Gaza War.

DiNapoli has historically advocated for investing in Israeli bonds, a position he has held while others, like New York City Director Bradlander, divested from such investments over the years.

As Goyle pushes for more aggressive leadership, he questions DiNapoli’s lengthy tenure, wondering aloud, “What’s he doing?” in a campaign video aimed at generating support.