A new poll by the Honan Strategy Group reveals that former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo leads the field for New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary despite not officially entering the race. The survey also shows widespread dissatisfaction with incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, with an overwhelming majority of Democratic voters opposing his re-election.
The poll, conducted from January 23-26 among 769 likely Democratic primary voters, found Cuomo leading the field with 35% of the vote in a hypothetical matchup. City Comptroller Brad Lander placed second with 10%, while Adams tied for third at 9% with Queens Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani. Under the city’s ranked-choice voting system, Cuomo would secure victory in the sixth round with 58% of the vote.
Although Cuomo has not announced a campaign, the results suggest strong support for his potential candidacy. His name recognition and perceived ability to address key issues such as crime, quality of life, and government corruption contribute to his standing in the poll.
The survey paints a grim picture for Mayor Adams as he seeks a second term. According to the survey, 85% of voters believe Adams should not be re-elected, 81% disapprove of his job performance, with 60% strongly disapproving. 66% of voters give the NYC government a poor rating. Additionally, 64% feel Adams is too closely tied to President Donald Trump.
Voters express deep concerns about the direction of the city under Adam’s leadership. 75% of respondents believe New York City is on the wrong track, and 80% say they are worried about crime levels.
The poll underscores a broader sense of dissatisfaction among Democratic primary voters. Nearly half (45%) would consider leaving the city if conditions worsen. Crime (23%), quality of life (22%), and housing affordability (19%) are the most pressing issues cited by respondents.
“New Yorkers are fundamentally unhappy with where the city is today,” said pollster Bradley Honan, whose firm conducted the survey. “There’s a sense of fear and anxiety that runs deep.”
Despite his resignation as governor in 2021 amid allegations of misconduct, Cuomo remains a familiar political figure. He scores high in favorability compared to other candidates and is viewed by many as best equipped to handle New York City’s issues.
While Adams has not yet drawn a high-profile challenger, the poll suggests that many Democratic voters seek an alternative. The race remains fluid with the June 2025 primary approaching, but the numbers signal a steep uphill battle for the incumbent mayor.
