Zohran Mamdani NYC mayor approval poll
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Siena poll: 69% of NYC voters favor Mayor Mamdani, but 60% of suburban voters view him unfavorably. The city-suburb split defines his political reach and impact on state races.
Background
Zohran Mamdani, a socialist mayor of New York City, has high approval within the city but faces strong opposition in the suburbs. A Siena College poll of 811 likely statewide voters found 47% favorable and 44% unfavorable overall, with stark contrasts between city and suburban voters. This divide is significant as it affects statewide Democratic prospects, with strategists noting Mamdani's popularity could help turn out votes in NYC for Governor Hochul.
How it unfolded
- Aug 12, 2026Siena College poll released showing Mamdani's 69% favorability in NYC vs. 60% unfavorability in suburbs.
- Aug 13, 2026Appellate judge rules Mamdani's pied-à-terre tax can continue rollout during appeal; Trump calls for it to be stopped.
- Aug 14, 2026Teachers union boss criticizes Mamdani administration over low reading scores.
- Aug 16, 2026Mamdani's housing nominee faces City Council pushback over 'homeowner cartels' comment.
- Aug 17, 2026Netanyahu's Likud party uses Mamdani's image on billboard alongside Iran and Hezbollah leaders.
- Aug 18, 2026Newsweek analysis explores why Mamdani's socialist appeal stops at the city line.
Who’s saying what
- Pollster
- Siena pollster Steven Greenberg says Mamdani can be helpful to Hochul with NYC voters.
- Suburban voters
- 60% of suburban voters view Mamdani unfavorably, reflecting skepticism of socialism.
- Republicans
- Republicans use Mamdani as a bogeyman outside NYC to rally opposition.
- City Council
- Some council members oppose Mamdani's housing nominee, citing policy conflicts.
Still unverified
Claims that an ID would be needed for city-owned grocery stores, mentioned in USA Today opinion, are unverified.