Overview

• A Public Policy Polling survey conducted June 6–7 for Justin Brannan’s campaign shows Zohran Mamdani edging Andrew Cuomo 35% to 31%, marking the first time the progressive has overtaken the former governor within the 4.1% margin of error.
• Cuomo’s campaign disputes the PPP findings, citing internal polls that maintain a consistent double-digit advantage and questioning the survey’s methodology.
• A pro-Cuomo super PAC mailer that darkened and lengthened Mamdani’s beard prompted the candidate to accuse his opponent’s backers of “blatant Islamophobia.”
• Mamdani’s proposal for free buses, universal child care and city-run grocery stores funded by a 2% tax on millionaires faces a hurdle in Albany under Gov. Kathy Hochul and the state legislature.
• High-profile endorsements are highlighting the ideological split: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has backed Mamdani, while Rep. Tom Suozzi and former Mayor Mike Bloomberg are rallying behind Cuomo.