Key facts
- New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has faced daily criticism from the New York Post since his 2024 mayoral campaign.
- Despite attacks, Mamdani's popularity has increased, with a late June Siena University poll showing 58% approval.
- Mamdani's influence is demonstrated by the success of three endorsed candidates in June congressional primaries.
- Media experts suggest Mamdani's media savvy and direct public engagement have countered the Post's traditional influence.
- Predictions of negative economic consequences by the Post have not materialized, with office leasing showing growth.
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has successfully navigated a barrage of criticism from the right-wing New York Post, with his popularity and political influence growing despite the tabloid's daily attacks. Since launching his mayoral campaign in late 2024, Mamdani has endured accusations of being a communist, a police-hater, an antisemite, and detrimental to the city's economy.
However, unlike previous liberal mayors who struggled against the Post's influence, Mamdani appears to have bested the publication. A Siena University poll in late June indicated that Mamdani's favorability had increased, with 58% of New Yorkers approving of his performance, a rating higher than the Democratic party nationally. His influence was further demonstrated when three candidates he endorsed won their June congressional primaries.
Ross Barkan, author of an upcoming book on Mamdani, noted that the mayor possesses a national stature and an ability to combat the Post that previous politicians lacked. Barkan suggested that the Post's attacks, which have ranged from Mamdani's stance on Israel to his plans for public supermarkets and even his wife's holiday, have failed to resonate with voters.
Angelo Carusone, president of Media Matters for America, described the Post's strategy as 'spaghetti against the wall,' suggesting that Mamdani's own media understanding and direct engagement with the public have neutralized the tabloid's impact. Carusone stated that Mamdani bypasses traditional media channels, acting as his own storyteller.
Historically, the Post's criticism has weakened mayoral agendas, as seen with Bill de Blasio, whose progressive initiatives faced significant hurdles. Barkan contrasted Mamdani with de Blasio, noting that Mamdani is not distracted by presidential ambitions and is taken seriously by Democrats across the country.
Predictions made by the Post regarding businesses fleeing the city and a potential bankruptcy have not materialized. Data indicates an increase in office leasing in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the previous quarter, suggesting the city's economic outlook remains stable despite the negative press.