New York Voters Concerned About Rise of Socialism, Poll Finds

A recent poll suggests that a majority of New York voters harbor concerns about the increasing presence of socialism and candidates aligned with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). The survey, conducted by the firm co/efficient for the Coalition to Protect Nassau, found that 56% of 1,046 likely voters polled expressed concern about the rise of socialism in the state. Of those, 44% reported being "very" concerned.

Across party lines, concern levels varied. A significant 85% of Republicans stated they were concerned, with 77% indicating they were "very" concerned. In contrast, 62% of Democrats reported being "not concerned" about socialism, while 38% expressed concern. Among voters not registered with a major party, 58% indicated worry about growing socialism, including 44% who were "very concerned."

In the gubernatorial race, the poll shows Democratic incumbent Gov. Kathy Hochul leading Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman with 48% support compared to Blakeman's 41%, with 11% undecided. This represents a slight increase in Hochul's lead from a previous poll in July, where she held a 47% to 41% advantage. The polling firm co/efficient previously demonstrated accuracy in predicting the 2022 race between Hochul and Republican Lee Zeldin, which was closer than many public polls had indicated.

Independent polls from Siena University and Quinnipiac College showed Hochul leading Blakeman by wider margins, 50% to 41% and 58% to 39%, respectively. Despite her lead in the gubernatorial contest, Hochul's favorable view among likely voters in the Nassau County Taxpayers poll was 36%, with 46% viewing her unfavorably and 18% undecided. Blakeman's favorability stood at 33%, with 35% unfavorable and 33% unsure or unfamiliar with him.

Voters expressed dissatisfaction with the overall direction of New York, with 52% believing the state is moving in the wrong direction, while 27% felt it was moving in the right direction. The primary concerns cited by voters were the cost of living, inflation, taxes, and spending.

Interestingly, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, often associated with democratic socialism, received a higher job approval rating in the poll than both Hochul and former President Donald Trump. Mamdani's job performance was approved by 44% of voters statewide, with 43% disapproving and 13% undecided. In comparison, only 32% approved of Trump's job performance, while 60% disapproved.

The poll surveyed 1,046 likely voters from September 23-25 using mobile text and cell/landline interviews. The margin of error for the results is plus or minus 3 percentage points.