Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports, expressed his disappointment with the results of the recent New York City mayoral election, in which Democrat Zohran Mamdani emerged victorious. Portnoy took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his thoughts with his 3.7 million followers after Mamdani secured 50.4 percent of the vote, defeating Independent Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa.
In a tweet quoting conservative strategist Scott Jennings, Portnoy commented on Mamdani’s persona, stating, “Scott Jennings sums up Mamdani perfectly. But if this is what the people of NYC want, then so be it. Thank god I don’t live there anymore.” Jennings had characterized Mamdani as the “greatest actor” in the Democratic party, suggesting that he presents himself as a champion for the poor despite his privileged background.
Jennings also expressed concerns about Mamdani’s framing of societal issues, arguing that his campaign narrative divides people into “oppressors and oppressed.” His remarks pointed to a perceived fear among certain communities in New York, including Jewish residents, about being labeled as part of the oppressor class.
Mamdani’s victory marks a historic moment as he becomes the first Muslim and South Asian mayor of New York City, a development that elicited a range of reactions, especially regarding his views on critical issues, including the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Prior to the election, Portnoy openly criticized Mamdani and even suggested relocating Barstool’s offices out of New York City should Mamdani win. He indicated his strong disapproval, stating, “If it was just me, I would move the company out of New York City because I hate this guy so much,” although he later acknowledged the impact such a move would have on his employees.
As reactions continue to pour in from various quarters, celebrity endorsements for Mamdani’s victory are balanced by messages of disappointment, highlighting the polarizing nature of the election outcome. Portnoy’s vocal dissent represents a faction of New Yorkers who remain apprehensive about the city’s political trajectory under the new mayor.