The city’s mayoral race has taken a sharp turn as Zohran Mamdani, the progressive State Assembly member from Queens, has surged ahead in recent polls, establishing a comfortable lead over his closest rivals, former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican commentator Curtis Sliwa.
Recent data from the New York Times/Siena poll shows Mamdani holding 41% of voter support, compared to 28% for Cuomo and 19% for Sliwa, with the remainder undecided. The poll highlights a growing shift among younger and working-class voters toward Mamdani’s progressive platform focused on affordable housing, public transport reform, and climate equity.
Former President Donald Trump’s endorsement of Andrew Cuomo—an unusual cross-party move—appears to have had little effect on the race. Analysts suggest the endorsement may have backfired, reinforcing perceptions of Cuomo as part of an entrenched political establishment.
Mamdani’s campaign has capitalized on grassroots energy and digital organizing. His rallies have drawn large, diverse crowds, particularly in outer-borough neighborhoods where voters feel neglected by traditional party power structures.
“New York deserves leadership that listens, not dictates,” Mamdani said during a recent campaign stop in Brooklyn. “This city belongs to everyone who calls it home.”
The race is now shaping up to be a referendum on New York’s direction — between progressive renewal and centrist restoration. With early voting ending Sunday and Election Day set for November 4, both camps are intensifying outreach in the final stretch.
What’s next:
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Final televised debate scheduled for Thursday night.
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Analysts expect turnout among young voters and immigrants to be decisive.
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Wall Street donors are shifting attention to city council races as Mamdani’s lead solidifies.
