A new poll conducted by the Associated Press in partnership with the NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani enjoys a higher favorability rating among American Jews than Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, despite Mamdani’s outspoken criticism of Israel.

According to the survey, 44% of Jewish respondents expressed a favorable opinion of Mamdani, while just 32% viewed Netanyahu favorably. At the same time, 59% of respondents said they held an unfavorable view of Netanyahu, compared with 39% who viewed Mamdani negatively. The poll did not ask respondents to choose between the two figures directly; rather, each was rated independently as part of a broader list of public personalities.

The survey also found significant divisions among American Jews over Israel’s war in Gaza. Thirty percent of Jewish respondents said they believe Israel committed “genocide” against Palestinians in Gaza, a figure nearly identical to the 31% recorded among the broader American public. By contrast, 49% of Jewish respondents rejected that characterization.

While support for Israel’s initial response to Hamas’ October 7 attack remained strong, opinions were sharply divided over the continuation of the military campaign. Nearly three-quarters of Jewish respondents—73%—said they supported Israel’s immediate military response following the Hamas attack. However, views on the ongoing war were almost evenly split, with 42% saying the continued military operation is justified and 43% saying it is not.

The poll also highlighted the political makeup of the American Jewish community, which may help explain many of the findings. Fifty-nine percent of respondents identified as Democrats or leaned Democratic, while only 27% identified as Republicans or leaned Republican. Ideologically, 42% described themselves as liberal and 41% as moderate. Additionally, 83% of Jewish respondents said they do not support the MAGA movement associated with President Donald Trump.

{Matzav.com}