With help from Amira McKee

A recent poll sponsored by supporters of Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee, indicates a promising route to Gracie Mansion for the Queens assemblymember. The survey places Mamdani at the forefront with a notable 50% of the vote in a new general election poll of the mayoral race.

In the multi-candidate race, former Governor Andrew Cuomo follows at 22%, with Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa securing 13%. Current Mayor Eric Adams lags behind with only 7% of the vote among likely voters, and attorney Jim Walden trails with a mere 1%.

Amit Singh Bagga, head of Public Progress Solutions, emphasized the inclusivity of the poll. "Our independent poll, offered in four languages and analyzing various demographics, clearly demonstrates widespread support for Mamdani across diverse communities," Bagga stated.

The poll, analyzed by Bagga's firm and Zenith Research, involved 1,453 registered voters, 1,021 of whom were classified as "likely" voters. Conducted from July 16 to 24, the results were gathered just days before a tragic shooting incident in Midtown Manhattan.

Despite being overseas for his wedding in Uganda during the polling period, Mamdani is expected to return to New York shortly. Even in hypothetical one-on-one matchups, Mamdani holds a solid lead over Cuomo, 52-40 among likely voters, though his advantage narrows slightly among all registered voters.

With the election three months away, only 32% of likely voters express reluctance to consider Mamdani, in stark contrast to Cuomo and Adams, who face significant opposition at 60% and 68%, respectively.

"This poll underscores a challenging environment for any contender against Mamdani in a divided field," commented Adam Carlson of Zenith Research.

Additionally, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie hinted at his support for Mamdani but stopped short of a full endorsement. Heastie's interaction with reporters in Schenectady today focused on state investment needs, yet he reiterated his consistent support for Democratic candidates.

In other political developments, Governor Kathy Hochul and Speaker Heastie called for national action on gun control following the recent Midtown shooting, emphasizing the limitations of state laws against interstate weapon trafficking.

Furthermore, political tension continues as discussions about redistricting and potential legislative sessions loom, reflecting the complex and dynamic nature of New York politics.

As the city progresses towards the November elections, all eyes remain on Mamdani and his competitors, setting the stage for what may become a transformative period in New York City's governance.