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As Mayor Mamdani settles into his first term, the city skyline reflects a mix of optimism and uncertainty about the new administration’s direction.NYC Today
A new Marist Institute for Public Opinion survey found that over 60% of New Yorkers see Mayor Zohran Mamdani as a unifier for the city as he approaches his first 100 days in office. Mamdani received mostly positive results in the poll, with a 48% approval rating and 65% of respondents approving of his leadership during recent winter storms that hit the NYC region.
Why it matters
As a relative newcomer to politics who pulled off a surprise victory in the mayoral race, Mamdani’s early performance and public perception will be closely watched as he seeks to implement his agenda and build coalitions in a diverse city like New York.
The details
The Marist Institute for Public Opinion survey of 1,454 adults in late March found that while 30% disapprove of Mamdani’s job performance so far, 23% are still unsure. This ‘notable’ number of undecided voters suggests Mamdani has more work to do to solidify his standing. The poll also noted that Mamdani’s 48% approval rating is lower than the 61% approval Eric Adams had at a similar point in his term. However, Mamdani was seen as more likely than his predecessor Bill de Blasio to be perceived as working hard and effecting positive change.
Mamdani hits his first 100 days in office this week.The Marist Institute for Public Opinion survey was conducted in late March 2026.
The players
Zohran Mamdani
The 34-year-old mayor of New York City, who previously served as a state assemblyman and pulled off a surprise victory in the mayoral race.
Eric Adams
The former mayor of New York City, who had a 61% approval rating in his first 100 days.
Bill de Blasio
The former mayor of New York City, who was less likely than Mamdani to be perceived as working hard and effecting positive change.
The President of the United States, who has worked with Mayor Mamdani despite their ideological differences.
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What they’re saying
“’The new communist mayor of New York City, I think he’s a nice guy, actually. I speak to him a lot. Bad policy, but nice guy.’”
— Donald Trump, President of the United States
What’s next
As Mamdani’s first 100 days in office approach, the mayor will likely continue to focus on building relationships and coalitions to address key issues facing New York City, while also working to solidify his standing with undecided voters.
The takeaway
Despite some early skepticism, Mayor Mamdani has managed to maintain relatively strong approval ratings and be seen as a unifying figure in his first months in office. However, he still has work to do to fully win over New Yorkers and cement his legacy, especially as he navigates relationships with political rivals like President Trump.