Poll Reveals How Jewish American View Mamdani And Netanyahu

NEW YORK, NY— More American Jewish residents hold a favorable view of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani than Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to a new national poll.

The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research survey of more than 1,000 Jewish Americans found 44 percent view Mamdani favorably, while 39 percent view him unfavorably.

Netanyahu received lower marks.

The poll found 32 percent of Jewish Americans hold a favorable opinion of the Israeli prime minister, while 59 percent view him unfavorably.

The survey, conducted in June, has a margin of error of 5 percentage points.

What Does The Poll Show?

Among the broader U.S. public, opinions of Mamdani remained divided.

28 percent viewed him unfavorably, compared with 27 percent who viewed him favorably.

Netanyahu also received more negative than positive ratings from Americans overall, although his standing with the general public exceeded his ratings among Jewish Americans.

The findings point to broader divisions over Israel's government and the war in Gaza, particularly among younger, less religious and politically liberal Jewish Americans.

Why Is Mamdani's Showing Notable?

The results come despite Mamdani's often tense relationship with parts of New York's Jewish community.

During his political career, Mamdani has sharply criticized the Israeli government.

He has declined to say Israel should exist specifically as a Jewish state and has had criticisms thrown at him for the slogan "globalize the intifada," a phrase many Jewish organizations say contributes to antisemitism.

Mamdani has said he takes concerns about antisemitism seriously and argues that criticism of Israel should not be equated with antisemitism.

His decision to skip New York City's Israel Parade also drew criticism from some Jewish leaders.

City Hall did not immediately respond to requests for comment about the poll.

How Are Views Of Israel Changing?

The survey suggests younger, less religious and more politically liberal Jewish Americans continue to express growing dissatisfaction with Israel's government and its military campaign in Gaza.

According to the poll, about 30 percent of Jewish Americans said they believe Israel has committed genocide in Gaza. About one-half disagreed, while about 20 percent said they were unsure.

Among Americans overall, roughly 30 percent also said Israel has committed genocide, about 20 percent disagreed and about one-half said they were uncertain.

The poll also found Jewish Americans were less likely than the general public to approve of President Donald Trump's job performance.

Poll By The Numbers

Jewish Americans

• Mamdani favorable: 44 percent
• Mamdani unfavorable: 39 percent
• Netanyahu favorable: 32 percent
• Netanyahu unfavorable: 59 percent

Americans Overall

• Mamdani favorable: 27 percent
• Mamdani unfavorable: 28 percent