New Poll Shows Zoran Mamdani Leading NYC Mayoral Race
With Election Day in 2025 approaching, Zoran Mamdani appears to be significantly ahead in the New York City mayoral race according to a recent poll.
Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist from Queens, surprised many with his strong win over former Governor Andrew Cuomo in June. Currently, he boasts a 20-point lead over Cuomo and is viewed as a likely contender for the November general election with 45% support in a Suffolk University poll.
Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 amid various scandals and now runs as an independent candidate, has garnered 25% support in a survey conducted between September 16 and 18.
On the Republican side, Curtis Sliwa, co-founder of the Guardian Angels, is again running in a city under Democratic control, managing only 9% support. Meanwhile, current Mayor Eric Adams, who decided to skip the Democratic primary, sits at 8% as an independent candidate.
The remaining candidates are struggling as well, collectively accounting for just 1% of the vote, while 9% of voters remain undecided.
As noted by Suffolk University, this first public poll includes all candidates—seven listed officially and others from various affiliated parties.
Interestingly, Mamdani benefits from being listed multiple times on the ballot, which could help his visibility among voters; he is listed first as a Democratic candidate and again as a fourth choice for the Worker Family Party.
Cuomo appears as the eighth option, which may hinder his chances.
Recent polls have consistently shown Mamdani solidly in front of Cuomo, with margins varying from 15 to 22 points. Both Sliwa and Adams have vowed to remain in the race, even with reports suggesting potential administrative roles for them from Donald Trump’s advisors should they not succeed.
Mamdani, born in Uganda, could make history as the first Muslim and millennial mayor of New York City if elected. His campaign has resonated with voters, focusing on affordability in a city burdened by high living costs, supported by grassroots efforts and endorsements from leading progressives like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders.
His proposals have included abolishing bus fares, implementing free tuition at CUNY, providing free childcare for young children, and creating a government-run grocery store. However, he’s faced criticism for his left-wing agendas and for his stances on several issues, including policing and Israel.
A recent survey indicates that the primary concern for New York City voters is affordability at 21%, followed by crime (20%), economic issues (14%), and housing (9%). Yet, negative sentiments appear to surround his and Cuomo’s reputations, with significant portions of the electorate expressing concerns about their views and proposed policies.
The findings from these polls reflect a complex, evolving landscape as the election nears. It’s not just the candidates’ proposals that are on the line; perceptions and longstanding beliefs about each candidate are key factors that will influence their chances come November.
