NEW YORK (Diya TV) — Jenifer Rajkumar on Monday accused “democratic socialists” of running a coordinated campaign of hate against her as she prepares for reelection. The New York state assemblywoman said the attacks target her identity, record, and personal life. Rajkumar shared the claims in a social media post on April 20. She framed the criticism as part of a broader political fight over values, identity, and policy in New York politics.
Rajkumar highlighted her background as a civil rights attorney and the daughter of immigrants. She said she overcame barriers to become the first South Asian woman elected to a New York state office.
She also pointed to key accomplishments from her time in office. Rajkumar said she helped make Diwali a public school holiday in New York. She added that her “Smoke Out Act” led to a crackdown on illegal smoke shops. She also said her office brought new attention and resources to underserved parts of the city.
“These achievements show what we can do when we focus on progress,” she said in her post.
Rajkumar accused her political opponents, including democratic socialists, of trying to undermine her work and reputation. She described the attacks as personal and harmful. She said critics targeted her religion and labeled her a “Hindu fascist.” Rajkumar rejected the claim and noted she was born in New York. She also accused opponents of spreading rumors about her qualifications as an attorney. She said some critics made inappropriate and false claims about her personal life, including allegations involving the mayor.
“And now they’re manufacturing baseless allegations against my petitions,” she said.
Rajkumar called the campaign “rooted in sexism, religious bigotry, and outright lies.” She said such tactics harm both political discourse and community trust.
Rajkumar framed the dispute as part of a larger battle within local politics. She warned that what she called “extremist” groups are dividing communities and damaging civic life. “We must stand together to defeat the extremist, hate-filled machine poisoning our politics,” she said.
Her comments come at a time when tensions remain high among different factions within New York’s political landscape. Progressive and moderate Democrats have often clashed over policy, messaging, and leadership. Rajkumar did not name specific individuals in her post. However, her remarks appeared aimed at ideological rivals who have criticized her record and proposals.
Despite the criticism, Rajkumar said she will not step back from the race. She urged supporters to stay focused on what she described as a positive vision for the future.
“Love always wins over hate,” she said. “We will not back down.”
She also outlined several proposals she plans to pursue if reelected. One plan, called “Revitalized Atlantic 2.0,” aims to boost development in an overlooked part of the city. She said the initiative would create jobs and drive economic growth. Rajkumar also promoted a “universal basic stock” proposal. She said the idea would help working families build wealth and gain more financial stability. She framed the policy as a way to restore what she called the promise of the American dream.
Rajkumar ended her message with a direct appeal to voters. She urged them to support her campaign and reject what she described as negative politics.
“I don’t need your sympathy. I need your vote,” she said. “Join us. Stand with us.”
She encouraged voters to participate in the upcoming election and cast their ballots by June 23.