Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for New York City mayor, has expanded his lead to 13 points over former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, according to a polling average by Decision Desk HQ’s (DDHQ).
Mamdani Leads in Latest Polls
Taking into account independent as well as campaign-sponsored polls, DDHQ now finds Mamdani on top with support from 38.1% of likely voters in the five-person mayoral race. Cuomo, who entered the general election as an independent after his primary defeat, secures 25%.
Following behind, Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa claims third place at 15%, just ahead of incumbent Mayor Eric Adams—now running as an independent—who gets 11.5%. Independent hopeful Jim Walden, a former federal prosecutor, is far back with just above 1%.
Growing Momentum for Mamdani
Mamdani’s advantage represents a notable surge, as prior polling indicated a tighter race and uncertain support for the Democratic nominee in the city’s progressive landscape. After his upset over Cuomo in June’s primary, Mamdani has focused on pulling Democrats together, despite a lack of endorsements from some party figures.
Support for Mamdani has grown in recent weeks as Cuomo loses ground. He has also netted endorsements from notable Democratic lawmakers, including Rep. Jerry Nadler and Rep. Adriano Espaillat—who had previously supported Cuomo.
Opponents Split Anti-Mamdani Vote
The multi-candidate field has sparked debate among opponents about potentially splintering voters opposed to Mamdani. Cuomo has suggested consolidating support behind the most viable challenger by September.
Despite this, Adams and Sliwa, who have not caught up to Cuomo in polling, are adamant about staying in the race, making a unified opposition unlikely.
With less than three months before voters head to the polls, the contest displays classic signs of fractured alliances. Mamdani’s widening gap indicates he may be rallying more voters to his side than his challengers.
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