Robust Oversight Record. DiNapoli has recovered hundreds of millions for retirees through successful litigation against corporate fraud, demonstrating effective pension fund stewardship despite donation concerns.
14D AGOSTATENY COMPTROLLER THOMAS DINAPOLIETHICAL ISSUES
DiNapoli Under Fire for Law Firm Campaign Donations
What's the gist?
New York Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli faces scrutiny after reports revealed five law firms handling state pension litigation have donated roughly $500,000 to his campaigns over the years.
Context
DiNapoli took office in 2007 after predecessor Alan Hevesi went to prison for a pay-to-play pension scandal. DiNapoli imposed ethics reforms but exempted law firms from donation restrictions.
Positive takes
Existing Safeguards. The comptroller maintains a 90-day donation blackout during law firm bidding periods and uses a competitive, staff-driven process to select firms based on merit.
Transparency and Reform. DiNapoli voluntarily imposed stricter ethics rules than required by law and subjected the fund to independent fiduciary reviews that found exemplary management standards.
Negative takes
Pay-to-Play Appearance. Critics argue the donations create an obvious conflict of interest that undermines public confidence, especially given the office's corruption history under Hevesi.
Inadequate Restrictions. Good government groups say current safeguards don't go far enough, noting firms continue donating large sums shortly after blackout periods end.
Selective Ethics. While DiNapoli banned investment manager donations, excluding law firms from similar restrictions appears arbitrary and leaves a significant loophole in campaign finance reform.
— by VoiceWhat's Voice? Read this.
News sources
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Timothy Fanning · Times Union · May 15, 2026
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Chris Bragg · New York Focus · May 8, 2026
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