With six weeks to go until Election Day 2025, Zohran Mamdani remains far ahead of his rivals for New York City mayor, according to a new public opinion poll. Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist state lawmaker from Queens, shocked the political world in June with his convincing win over former Governor Andrew Cuomo and nine other candidates to capture the Democratic Party’s mayoral nomination. This victory, achieved through an energetic campaign focused on affordability and New York City’s high cost of living, has positioned Mamdani as the clear frontrunner in the Democratic-dominated city.
The Suffolk University CityView poll of New Yorkers very or somewhat likely to vote in November’s general election for mayor revealed that Mamd 45% support, while Cuomo holds 25% support. Curtis Sliwa, the Republican mayoral nominee, stands at 9%, and embattled incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, running as an independent, secured 8% support. The poll also indicates that voters are debunking much of the negative social media narratives about Mamdani and Cuomo. For instance, 59% of those questioned disagreed that Mamdani is antisemitic, while 52% disagreed that he would raise taxes, causing businesses to flee the city.
Mamdani’s campaign, supported by top national progressive figures, has made significant use of social media platforms like TikTok to engage low-propensity voters. His proposals include eliminating bus fares, making CUNY tuition-free, freezing municipal housing rents, offering free childcare for children up to age 5, and establishing government-run grocery stores. These policies, while criticized by his rivals, have resonated with many voters, particularly those concerned with affordability and economic equity.
The new poll highlights affordability as the top issue on voters’ minds, followed by crime, the economy, and housing. However, Mamdani faces challenges, particularly regarding his rhetoric on Israel, past criticisms of the NYPD, and his proposal to shift responsibilities away from the NYPD. Despite these criticisms, his lead in the polls remains strong, suggesting that his progressive vision continues to attract significant support from New York City voters.
Donald Trump, a native New Yorker who now resides in Florida, has criticized Mamdani, labeling him a communist, and has called for the field to narrow to provide Cuomo a better chance against Mamdani. However, both Sliwa and Adams have committed to staying in the race, despite reports that Trump’s advisors floated administration roles for them if they dropped out. The political landscape in New York City remains highly competitive, with Mamdani’s dominance in the polls indicating a potential significant shift in the city’s political direction upon his possible election.