DiNapoli gets a super PAC

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli is getting some outside support as he fends off his first Democratic primary challenge since assuming his position. A labor-funded independent expenditure committee is ready to spend seven figures to keep the incumbent around.

The New York Accountability Coalition is the first super PAC to spend money on a statewide race this year. Among its members are public sector unions whose pension fund is overseen by DiNapoli, including the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, Civil Service Employees’ Association, District Council 37 and Public Employees Federation. 

“Tom DiNapoli has been a steadfast champion for working people and retirees across New York,” Mary Sullivan, president of CSEA, said in a statement. “This campaign is about making sure voters understand what CSEA members already know: Tom DiNapoli is a transparent, trusted public servant who protects retirement security, respects workers and retirees, and safeguards taxpayers across New York.”

That group is already out with its first ad in support of DiNapoli as he attempts to fend off challenges from Drew Warshaw, Raj Goyle and Adem Bunkeddeko in June. All three are running to the left of the nearly 20-year incumbent in what has already shaped up to be an incredibly contentious race. 

The state Board of Elections will set the ballot for the primary on Tuesday, after which DiNapoli may have one less opponent for the New York Accountability Coalition to worry about. A preliminary staff report determined Bunkeddeko does not have enough valid petition signatures to make the ballot. If commissioners agree with that finding, DiNapoli would find himself in a three-way primary to keep his position.