In a heated first debate of the Democratic primary for New York City public advocate Thursday night, incumbent Jumaane Williams and challenger Assembly Member Jenifer Rajkumar sparred over the office’s powers, allegations of workplace misconduct, and ties to Mayor Eric Adams.

The debate, hosted by PIX11 and the city Campaign Finance Board and co-sponsored by Schneps Media, parent company of amNewYork, turned combative early as Rajkumar accused Williams of covering up a serious incident involving his NYPD security detail and chief of staff.

“A woman was drugged and assaulted in your office, and she says that you covered it up,” Rajkumar said during the debate. “I think you need to think about resigning.”

Rajkumar, a Queens Assembly Member and former civil rights lawyer, was referring to

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