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Mamdani More Popular Than Netanyahu Among American Jews, Poll Finds
A survey of American Jewish adults found Zohran Mamdani viewed more favourably than Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, amid their public dispute over Israel’s war in Gaza. The results highlight varied views within the community about the conflict and the two politicians.
Among 1,012 Jewish adults surveyed, 44% viewed Mamdani favourably and 39% unfavourably; for Netanyahu, the figures were 39% and 59%. While 79% said Hamas’s 7 October 2023 attack was unjustified, 42% considered Israel’s war in Gaza justified. On whether Israel had committed genocide, 50% of Jewish respondents were certain it had not, while 30% were certain it had; the poll’s sampling margin of error was ±2.8 percentage points.
In short
- Mamdani had a higher favourable rating than Netanyahu among Jewish adults.
- 42% considered Israel’s war in Gaza justified.
- Views on whether Israel committed genocide were divided.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The poll suggests Mamdani’s criticism of Netanyahu and Israel’s conduct in Gaza resonates with many American Jews, particularly those who see the war as unjustified or believe Israel has committed genocide. His higher favourable rating may reflect a desire for political leaders to press for accountability and a different approach to the conflict.
The case against
Netanyahu’s supporters may argue that Israel’s campaign must be judged in light of Hamas’s 7 October attack and the state’s responsibility to protect its citizens, a context reflected in the 42% who considered the war justified. They may also view Mamdani’s criticism as unfair or insufficiently attentive to Israeli security and the threat posed by Hamas, even as the poll shows substantial dissatisfaction with Netanyahu.
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