A new poll reveals that socialist Zohran Mamdani could seize New York City’s mayoralty, even against political heavyweight and former New York governor, Andrew Cuomo. According to a Siena Research/NY Times survey, Mamdani leads Cuomo 48 to 44 in a hypothetical two-man race, despite Cuomo’s attempts to consolidate support from moderate Democrats and Republicans.
“The big ‘if’ is what would happen if both Sliwa and Adams were to drop out of the race and make it a two-person showdown,” said Siena director Don Levy. He noted that Cuomo would gain older voters, but Mamdani’s dominance among the young and far-left base would carry him forward.
The poll also showed Mamdani crushing current Mayor Eric Adams 55 to 35 in a head-to-head contest. Curtis Sliwa, the Republican nominee, insists he will stay in the race, rejecting speculation about joining a Trump administration. Meanwhile, Adams has floated taking a federal appointment to bow out gracefully.
Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist, represents the radical shift in urban politics where voters prioritize left-wing economic promises over law and order. Levy explained, “Mamdani holds a huge lead among younger voters while voters 45 and older are split.”
The takeaway is grim for New Yorkers worried about crime, taxes, and declining quality of life: socialism is no longer a fringe idea in America’s largest city. As Levy warned, “Mamdani could continue to ride his support among young voters and voters concerned about economic issues all the way to Gracie Mansion.”
