Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist assemblyman from Queens, is surging in New York City’s mayoral race, according to new poll.
The survey, conducted for Tusk Strategies, shows Mamdani in second place with 12% support among likely Democratic voters—surpassing incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, who trails with 10%. Ex-Gov. Andrew Cuomo dominates with 38% as he eyes a comeback.
WHY IT MATTERS: Mamdani’s rise signals a growing appetite for leftist policies in not just NYC, but across the country, challenging the pro-corporate approach of many “centrist” Democrats.
THE DETAILS: Mamdani’s progressive platform—free public transit, city-owned grocery stores, rent freezes, and universal child care—is gaining traction among voters disillusioned with late-stage capitalism.
- Mamdani leads among young voters (18-34), with 33% backing him—higher than any other candidate.
- Other candidates: Comptroller Brad Lander (7%), ex-Comptroller Scott Stringer (5%), former Bronx Assemblyman Michael Blake (3%), and State Senators Zellnor Myrie (2%) and Jessica Ramos (1%).
The poll, conducted Feb. 22-23, surveyed 1,214 likely Democratic voters and has a margin of error of ±2.81%.
With ranked-choice voting, Mamdani’s growing support could play a decisive role—even if he doesn’t win outright. His rise also increases the likelihood of endorsements from major left-wing figures like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders.
WHAT’S NEXT: The Democratic primary is set for June 24, with Mamdani poised to shake up the race and challenge the establishment.