CITY HALL, Manhattan (PIX11) — As the race for New York City mayor intensifies, one voting bloc is drawing particular attention: Jewish New Yorkers, who make up roughly 15% of the city’s population.
While far from a monolith, the diverse community is increasingly seen as a decisive force in what is shaping up to be a closely watched election.
Traditionally, Jewish voters in the city have been courted by candidates across the political spectrum. But this year, with war in Gaza and questions about candidates’ stances on Israel, there is a new intensity—particularly when it comes to Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani.
Mamdani, a progressive lawmaker from Queens, has drawn both praise and controversy for his vocal opposition to Israel’s military actions in Gaza, which he has called a “genocide.” He has also defended past use by others of the phrase “globalize the intifada”—language that has alarmed some Jewish voters, particularly in more Conservative and Orthodox communities. He has since said he would discourage the use of the phrase.
But overall, Mamdani appears to be gaining traction among Jewish New Yorkers. A recent poll from Zenith Research found him leading the field among Jewish voters with 43% support. The poll showed particularly strong numbers among younger Jewish voters (67%), as well as reform and secular Jews (55%). Even among more conservative and Orthodox respondents, he registered 21% support.
“In a crowded field, Mamdani remains a double-digit favorite among Jewish New Yorkers,” said Adam Carlson, a founder of Zenith Research. “I think that surprised a lot of people.”
Mamdani has stressed that while his views on foreign policy differ from some in the Jewish community, he will remain primarily focused on the city’s affordability crisis– the top concern for most voters across the belief spectrum.
“Affordability is far and away the number one issue,” Carlson said. “The mayor has very little direct impact on foreign policy, and I think that’s reflected in these generational gaps.”
Meanwhile, Mayor Eric Adams—who is running for re-election as an independent on the “End-Antisemitism” ballot line—is continuing to draw support from many in more religious communities– including top Jewish officials.
Tuesday, Adams rallied at City Hall alongside prominent rabbis and other faith leaders.
“You have been behind the Jewish community from your heart,” one rabbi said. “And in November, the Jewish community will be behind you.”
Supporters of Adams cited his consistent backing of the Jewish community, before, during, and after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack in Israel.
“He’s always been there to support us,” said another rabbi. “And now it’s our time to support this great mayor.”
Despite stark differences in political alignment, many Jewish New Yorkers interviewed emphasized a shared desire for peace and unity, regardless of who they plan to vote for.
“We do not want war,” said one Rabbi. “Any death is horrific—whether you’re Palestinian, Israeli, Jewish, or Arab. It makes no difference.
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