Poll shows US Jews favor Mamdani more than Netanyahu
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A new poll by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research has highlighted notable divisions within the American Jewish community regarding key political figures and the ongoing Gaza war.
Released on Tuesday, the survey of 1,022 Jewish adults conducted from June 11 to June 17 found that New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani holds a higher net favorability rating among respondents than ‘Israeli’ Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
According to the poll, 44% of American Jews hold a favorable opinion of Mamdani, compared to 39% who view him unfavorably, resulting in a net positive rating of +5.
In contrast, only 32% expressed a favorable view of Netanyahu, while 59% held an unfavorable opinion, yielding a net rating of -27.
The findings come amid Mamdani’s tenure as mayor, during which the democratic socialist has drawn criticism from Jewish and pro-‘Israel’ groups for his sharp criticism of ‘Israel’.
Mamdani has refused to recognize ‘Israel’ as a Jewish state, advocated for divestment from ‘Israel’s’ economy, skipped the annual “Israel Day” parade, and pledged to arrest Netanyahu if he visits New York in compliance with an International Criminal Court warrant.
Despite these positions, the poll indicates that Mamdani’s views on ‘Israel’ have not significantly damaged his standing among American Jews overall.
For comparison, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, a staunch supporter of ‘Israel’ who has criticized Netanyahu’s leadership, achieved a higher net favorability, with 41% viewing him favorably against 21% unfavorable.
The survey also reveals broader dissatisfaction with ‘Israeli’ leadership and the conduct of the war in Gaza.
A majority of 73% of respondents said ‘Israel’s’ initial military response to the events of October 7 was justified, but support for continued operations has waned, with only 42% backing them through last year’s ceasefire.
Approximately 30% of American Jews believe ‘Israel’ has committed genocide in Gaza, a charge ‘Israel’ denies.
Additional results underscore complex attitudes: 58% of Jewish respondents described ‘Israel’ as extremely or very important to them personally.
However, 38% felt the US is “too supportive” of ‘Israel’, while 43% said the US is not supportive enough of Palestinians.
