With just days left before New Yorkers head to the polls, the race for City Hall has entered a critical and unpredictable phase. The latest polling data shows Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani maintaining a narrowing lead over Independent contender Andrew Cuomo, while Republican Curtis Sliwa holds steady in third place. Mamdani’s advantage — once comfortably in double digits — has now slipped to just 6.6 percentage points, signaling tightening momentum and a volatile final stretch.
Cuomo, the former New York governor staging a political comeback, has focused his campaign on experience and stability, portraying himself as a seasoned hand capable of “fixing dysfunction” in city governance. His messaging appears to be resonating with older and moderate voters disillusioned by party politics.
Mamdani, meanwhile, continues to rally progressive and younger voters with his bold proposals on affordable housing, climate justice, and policing reform. His campaign emphasizes equity and accountability, positioning him as a fresh alternative to establishment figures.
Curtis Sliwa, the perennial Republican candidate and founder of the Guardian Angels, remains a polarizing voice in the race, capitalizing on public safety concerns and advocating for tougher crime policies.
Political analysts note that turnout — particularly among young and minority voters — could be the decisive factor. “This election is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent city history,” said a political observer from NYU. “The traditional party lines are blurring, and voter sentiment is unusually fluid.”
As early voting continues across the five boroughs, all eyes are on whether Mamdani can maintain his slim lead, or if Cuomo’s late surge will reshape the city’s political landscape. One thing is clear: New York’s 2025 mayoral election is poised to deliver surprises until the very last ballot is counted.
