American Jews Favor NYC Mayor Over Netanyahu, Signaling Deepening Divides

Recent polling continues to show declining U.S. support for Israel, especially among Democrats, independents, and increasingly among younger Republicans. However, a new AP‑NORC poll draws particular attention for a different reason.

The survey finds that 44% of American Jews hold a very or somewhat favorable view of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, while only 32% express similar favorability toward Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Mamdani, who has criticized AIPAC and questioned the notion of Israel as a Jewish state, is preferred even though he has suggested he would arrest Netanyahu were the Israeli leader to visit New York.

Conversely, 59% of American Jews view Netanyahu unfavorably compared with 39% who feel the same about Mamdani.

This reversal suggests more than a repudiation of Netanyahu; it signals a broader shift within American Jewry, where the bonds of communal solidarity appear to be weakening.

Another AP‑NORC poll released simultaneously shows that three in ten American Jews identify as Jewish only ethnically, culturally, or through family background, while describing themselves as agnostic, atheist, or religiously unaffiliated. Unsurprisingly, these respondents report weaker connections to Israel.

The data reinforce a long‑observed pattern: greater engagement in Jewish religious life—whether Orthodox, Conservative, or Reform—correlates with stronger attachment to Israel. Conversely, declining synagogue participation appears linked to weaker support for the Jewish state.

Former Chicago mayor and prospective presidential candidate Rahm Emanuel cited the poll in interviews during a recent visit to Israel, claiming it proves that Israel has lost both the Democratic Party and America. Emanuel’s commentary reflects a broader narrative among some American Jews who have long criticized Israel’s settlement policy, the right‑wing, and Netanyahu for rejecting a two‑state solution.

Implications for American Jewry

The fact that many American Jews now rate a New York mayor more favorably than Israel’s prime minister raises concerns about communal cohesion and the future of Jewish self‑determination advocacy in the United States.

Israel’s Broader Challenges

Critics argue that figures like Emanuel, who portray Israel as isolated diplomatically and economically, share responsibility for the perception that Israel is increasingly ostracized. While Israeli policies and rhetoric certainly affect public opinion, external narratives also shape the debate.

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