Mamdani Leads NYC Mayoral Race by 13 Points as Cuomo Gains Support Post-Adams Exit

A recent Quinnipiac University poll indicates that Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee, holds a 13-point lead in the New York City mayoral race, with 46% of likely voters supporting him. Former Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, running on a third-party line after losing the Democratic primary, has seen his support rise to 33%, following Mayor Eric Adams's withdrawal from the race. Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa garners 15% support.

The poll, conducted from October 3 to October 7 with a margin of error of 3.9 percentage points, reflects a shift in voter preferences since Adams's departure. Mary Snow, assistant director of the poll, noted, "The numbers changed, but the contours of the race haven't."

Mamdani, a 33-year-old state assemblyman and democratic socialist, remains the front-runner. He is the only candidate viewed favorably by a majority of likely voters, and his supporters exhibit higher enthusiasm compared to Cuomo's. However, Mamdani has yet to surpass the 50% threshold in overall support.

Cuomo's campaign interprets the recent uptick in support as a sign of momentum, aiming to attract additional donors. Despite this, more than half of likely voters question Cuomo's ethics, stemming from his resignation amid a sexual harassment scandal, which he denies.

The candidates present contrasting visions for the city. Mamdani advocates for free buses and child care, a rent freeze on approximately one million rent-stabilized units, and maintaining the current size of the Police Department while reallocating some functions to a new civilian-led department of community safety. Cuomo opposes a rent freeze, proposes targeted subsidies for low-income residents, and supports expanding the police force.

Voters perceive Mamdani as better suited to address housing costs, manage public schools, and ensure family safety. Cuomo is viewed as having an advantage in growing the city's economy, with 73% of likely voters believing he possesses the right experience for the mayoral role, compared to 39% for Mamdani.

Regarding the conflict between Israel and Hamas, more voters align with Mamdani's views. However, his pledge to seek the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on war crimes charges is opposed by 43% of likely voters, while 38% support it.