Many Voters Wary of NYC Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani

Skepticism Surrounds America’s First Major-City “Democratic Socialist” Mayor

The election of Zohran Mamdani as New York City’s next mayor has stirred debate far beyond the five boroughs. A new Rasmussen Reports survey finds that 38% of likely U.S. voters believe Mamdani will make life in the city worse, while only 32% think he’ll make it better. Another 16% expect little change, and 13% remain unsure.

Nationwide Attitudes Reflect Ideological Divide

Mamdani, 34, has proudly identified as a “democratic socialist,” a label that continues to divide voters. Thirty-nine percent of respondents say they’d consider voting for a democratic socialist in next year’s congressional elections, but nearly half—49%—say they are unlikely to do so. Support is strongest among Democrats and younger voters, while Republicans and older voters overwhelmingly reject the ideology.

Partisan Reactions and Demographic Trends

Fifty-six percent of Democrats expect Mamdani’s leadership to improve life in New York City, compared to just 14% of Republicans. Younger voters under 30 tend to view him more favorably, while older Americans remain skeptical. Voters with higher incomes are also least likely to support socialist candidates.

A Divided Public Ahead of 2026

As New York prepares for Mamdani’s term, the Rasmussen findings underscore a larger national divide over progressive politics in major cities. For many voters, the experiment in New York will serve as a bellwether for how far Americans are willing to embrace socialism at the ballot box.