Poll Shows Cuomo Closing In on Mamdani in NYC Mayoral Race as Election Day Approaches

Poll Shows Cuomo Closing In on Mamdani in NYC Mayoral Race as Election Day Approaches

With Election Day fast approaching, Zohran Mamdani currently enjoys a ten-point lead in the race for mayor of New York City. However, former Governor Andrew Cuomo is narrowing the gap, according to the latest public opinion poll.

Mamdani, a 34-year-old Democratic socialist and state lawmaker from Queens, made headlines in June when he won the Democratic nomination, defeating Cuomo along with several other candidates. According to a recent survey from Quinnipiac University, Mamdani has 43 percent support among likely voters.

Cuomo, who resigned amid scandals in 2021 and is now running as an independent after losing the primary, garnered 33 percent in the same poll.

Cuomo’s Momentum Builds in Final Stretch

The poll was conducted from Thursday through Monday, following incumbent Mayor Eric Adams’s endorsement of Cuomo to help him defeat Mamdani. Although Adams originally intended to run for reelection as an independent, he withdrew last month but remains on the ballot.

Curtis Sliwa, the Republican nominee and co-founder of the Guardian Angels, registered at 14 percent in the poll. Notably, 6 percent of voters are still undecided while 3 percent declined to respond.

The Cuomo campaign’s spokesperson, Rich Azzopardi, commented on the tightening race, stating that Mamdani’s ten-point advantage has decreased from the previous poll’s 13-point lead.

Signs of a Tightening Race

“Make no mistake: The race is tightening, and Andrew Cuomo is closing in fast,” Azzopardi warned. This latest poll mirrors findings from Suffolk University that also showed Mamdani maintaining a ten-point lead but indicates a potential shift in voter sentiment.

According to Azzopardi, Mamdani seems to be stuck below 45 percent of the vote, even with favorable press coverage. He further emphasized that Cuomo’s campaign is gaining momentum.

Cuomo has ramped up his criticism of Mamdani, warning voters that chaos would follow if Mamdani were to win the mayoral election.

Mamdani Remains Cautious

Asked by Fox News whether he believes the victory is assured, Mamdani responded that he is not taking anything for granted. He stated, “If you want to take something for granted, that’s what Andrew Cuomo did in the primary. We don’t want to end up like Andrew Cuomo.”

Meanwhile, Sliwa, a well-known figure in New York politics, faces pressure to withdraw from the race to facilitate a one-on-one matchup with Mamdani and Cuomo. This strategy attempts to counter the likelihood of a Mamdani victory.

Among those urging Sliwa to drop out is billionaire businessman and conservative commentator John Catsimatidis, who holds influence in New York’s Republican circles and has ties to former President Donald Trump.

Mamdani’s Potential Historic Win

If elected, Mamdani would become New York City’s first Muslim and first Millennial mayor. His campaign gained significant traction due to its focus on addressing issues of affordability and the soaring cost of living in the city. This grassroots effort drew enthusiastic support from national progressive leaders like Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders.

Mamdani effectively utilized social media platforms, including TikTok, to engage lower-turnout voters. His ambitious proposals include ending fares for public bus rides, making CUNY tuition-free, freezing rents in municipal housing, providing free childcare for children up to five years old, and introducing government-run grocery stores.

Facing Criticism and Challenges

Despite his popularity among certain voter segments, Mamdani has faced criticism for his progressive proposals as well as his stances on various issues. Critics have targeted his comments regarding Israel and his past remarks on the NYPD. Mamdani advocates for shifting specific responsibilities away from law enforcement and redirecting focus towards social services and community programs.

The Mamdani campaign has not yet provided a response to requests for comments regarding poll results and campaign strategies. As the city prepares for a pivotal election, the contest remains razor-close, with both candidates taking strategic actions to mobilize their supporters and sway undecided voters.

The Final Push to Election Day

As the race heats up, candidates will need to intensify their outreach and engagement efforts to secure votes. Each poll, every endorsement, and the candidates’ strategies in the coming days will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this historic election. As New Yorkers gear up to cast their ballots, the stakes have never been higher.