Concerns Rise as New Yorkers Consider Leaving if Mamdani Wins

As the New York City mayoral election approaches, nearly one million residents are reportedly contemplating leaving the city if Democratic socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani wins, according to recent polling data.

A survey by J.L. Partners suggests that around 765,000 New Yorkers—about 9% of the city’s population—would definitely exit the city, citing concerns over what they perceive as the potential negative impacts of Mamdani’s far-left policies.

Additionally, the poll indicated that roughly 2.12 million individuals, or 25% of the population, are open to the idea of leaving if Mamdani becomes mayor.

Interestingly, among higher earners, about 7% of those making over $250,000 a year expressed they would definitely depart under Mamdani’s leadership. This raises significant questions about his economic proposals, especially his plan to increase taxes on high-income earners.

“People’s feelings can be hard to gauge, but the idea of Mamdani has spooked a lot of folks into considering leaving the Big Apple,” noted J.L. Partners pollster James Johnson.

He continued, “If that many people actually left, it would cause a huge economic shift. Particularly, older New Yorkers, Staten Islanders, and White voters seem most likely to contemplate relocating.”

Respondents were not shy in expressing their concerns, with some labeling a potential Mamdani-led New York as a ‘disaster’ and even worse terms.

Moreover, New York realtor Jay Batra mentioned that the market is feeling the effects of this anxiety. Wealthy individuals are reportedly selling their apartments in anticipation of Mamdani’s possible victory, while potential buyers are becoming hesitant.

“The sentiment around Mamdani is not positive,” Batra remarked. “People are wary of what his rent freeze proposal could mean for the market.”

Interestingly, he cited recent clients in the $3 million to $5 million range who are now backing out of deals.

As it stands, Mamdani appears poised to win the election on November 4th, with a substantial lead in various polls. The Real Clear Polling average shows him ahead by about 14.7 points over his closest competitor, former Governor Andrew Cuomo.

Mamdani, who identifies as a Democratic socialist, has campaigned on plans to freeze rents for stabilized units, provide taxpayer-funded transportation for all, subsidize child care, and create city-operated grocery stores.