New York City Mayoral Election Underway, Mamdani Leads in Polls

In-person voting began today, October 25, 2025, in the closely watched New York City mayoral race, with Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani currently holding a lead in polls against Republican Curtis Sliwa and independent candidate Andrew Cuomo.

Mamdani has energized liberal voters with proposals including universal free childcare, free public buses, and a rent freeze for approximately one million rent-regulated apartments in the city. Former New York Governor Cuomo, who is running as an independent after dropping out of the Democratic primary, has criticized Mamdani’s views on Israel, while incumbent Eric Adams endorsed Cuomo after suspending his own campaign last month. The outcome of this election could significantly shift the city’s approach to key social and economic policies.

The race has been marked by controversy, with Mamdani addressing what he called “racist, baseless” attacks stemming from his criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, which he has described as genocide – a view echoed by a UN inquiry and numerous rights groups. “To be Muslim in New York is to expect indignity, but indignity does not make us distinct,” Mamdani stated in a speech yesterday. Cuomo has positioned himself as a more experienced and fiscally responsible alternative, despite facing scrutiny over allegations of sexual harassment that led to his resignation as governor in 2021. For more on the candidates’ platforms, see Headlinez News’ candidate guide.

Simultaneously, New Jersey voters are also casting ballots in the gubernatorial race between Republican Jack Ciattarelli and Democrat Mikie Sherrill. Election officials expect high turnout, particularly given the increased accessibility of early voting, which was adopted in both states in recent years. Results from both races are anticipated to offer insights into the evolving dynamics within the Democratic Party and potential strategies for countering the Republican agenda.