Concerns Grow Over Socialism in New York
A recent poll indicates that many New York voters are uneasy about the increasing presence of socialism and candidates affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA).
The survey, carried out by co/efficient for the Coalition to Protect Nassau, posed the question: “How concerned are you about the rise of socialism and candidates from the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) Party in New York?”
Out of 1,046 likely voters surveyed, 56% expressed concern about the rise of socialism in the state, including 44% who are “very” concerned. In contrast, 44% reported no concern.
Among Republicans, a notable 85% indicated worry, with 77% in the “very concerned” category. However, 62% of Democrats claimed they weren’t concerned about the issue, while 38% said they were.
Voters without major party registration also showed apprehension, with 58% worried about growing socialism—44% of whom were very concerned. The remaining 42% either felt indifferent or weren’t concerned at all.
Turning to the governor’s race, the poll reveals Democratic incumbent Gov. Kathy Hochul ahead of Republican Bruce Blakeman by 48% to 41%, with 11% undecided. Hochul’s lead increased from a 47% to 41% margin in July.
The polling company had accurately predicted a closer race in 2022 between Hochul and then-Republican Rep. Lee Zeldin, where she ultimately won by 6 points—similar to the current polling spread.
Two independent polls recently showed Hochul leading Blakeman by 9 points (Siena University at 50% to 41%) and 19 points (Quinnipiac College at 58% to 39%).
Despite her lead in this race, only 36% of likely voters view Hochul favorably, while 46% have an unfavorable opinion and 18% remain undecided. In contrast, Blakeman’s ratings are 33% favorable and 35% unfavorable, with a third of voters unsure or unfamiliar with him.
Moreover, 52% of voters believe that New York is headed in the wrong direction, contrasted with 27% who think it’s moving in the right direction. The major concerns amongst voters include the cost of living, inflation, taxes, and government spending.
Interestingly, even as concerns about socialism grow, the face of democratic socialism in New York City, Mayor Zohran Mamdani, has performed better in the polls than both Hochul and President Trump. His job performance approval sits at 44%, with 43% disapproving and 13% undecided.
In comparison, Trump’s approval stands at only 32%, with 60% disapproving.
This co/efficient poll, conducted for the Nassau Coalition to Protect Taxpayers, queried 1,046 likely voters from September 23-25 through mobile text and interviews on both cell and landlines. The margin of error for the results is plus or minus 3 percentage points.
