Poll shows Cuomo’s lead shrinking in NYC mayor race as primary approaches
The race for New York City mayor in 2025 is heating up as former Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s lead in the Democratic Party mayoral primary is shrinking with less than a week to go until the crucial June 24 election. According to a new poll by the Marist Institute for Public Opinion, Cuomo is the top choice for 38% of likely Democratic primary voters in the city. Despite resigning in 2021 amid multiple scandals, Cuomo is now working on a political comeback and aiming to redeem his image.
Coming in second place in the poll is Zorhan Mamdani, a 33-year-old state assemblyman from Queens who is a democratic socialist. Mamdani has 27% support in the primary and has cut Cuomo’s lead nearly in half from a previous poll conducted a month ago. With endorsements from progressive leaders like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders, Mamdani has been able to consolidate support on the left.
The survey was conducted before the final debate between the candidates and before an incident involving New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, who was arrested by Department of Homeland Security agents for allegedly assaulting a federal officer. Despite a recent ad blitz questioning Mamdani’s experience, his campaign continues to gain momentum.
Cuomo’s campaign has highlighted his experience managing the state and handling crises like COVID-19 and attacks from the Trump administration. His spokesperson emphasized that Cuomo is the only candidate with the experience and record of results to lead the city effectively.
The 67-year-old Cuomo has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including sexual harassment accusations, an investigation into his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, and a criminal investigation by the Justice Department. However, he remains a formidable contender in the mayoral race.
More than 130,000 Democrats have already cast their ballots in early voting for the primary, setting the stage for a potentially unpredictable general election campaign. Incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, a moderate Democrat, is running for re-election as an independent, while President Donald Trump has become a central figure in the campaign despite not being on the ballot.
The candidates are focused on protecting the city from potential federal crackdowns on immigration protests and ensuring the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers. The November general election is expected to be closely watched as the city navigates through a critical period of change and uncertainty.
