New Yorkers are set to cast their final ballots early Tuesday morning as polling opens on election day for the highly anticipated mayoral election in the nation’s largest city. This election marks a significant moment as it will be the first major test at the ballot box for U.S. President Donald Trump following his re-election last November.
Voters in New York City will choose from a diverse slate of candidates, including Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani, who has emerged as a frontrunner with strong support from younger voters. Mamdani, a self-identified democratic socialist, is leading significantly in most polls, often by double-digit margins. However, the latest AtlasIntel poll indicates a tighter race, suggesting former state governor Andrew Cuomo is narrowing the gap. Cuomo, who is running as an independent after losing the Democratic primary to Mamdani, has garnered attention for his moderate stance.
The polling averages indicate that Mamdani holds a solid lead, with a Real Clear Politics average showing his advantage at approximately 14.3 points over Cuomo. Early voting has seen historic participation, with over 735,000 voters casting their ballots prior to election day, signaling a substantial mobilization among younger demographics.
The election has also drawn strong reactions from national figures, with President Trump threatening to cut funding to New York City if “communist” Mamdani emerges victorious. Endorsements further complicate the dynamics of the race, as current Mayor Eric Adams has publicly backed Cuomo, while House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has thrown his support behind Mamdani. Additionally, former mayor Rudy Giuliani has endorsed outsider Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa.
As New Yorkers prepare to head to the polls, the widespread engagement and competitive nature of the race highlight the importance of this election in shaping the future of New York City. The results will not only impact the local political landscape but also reflect broader national sentiments in an evolving political climate. Stay tuned for live updates as the election unfolds.