None of the potential Democratic mayoral challengers appear to be benefitting greatly from Anthony Weiner's resignation from Congress according to a NY1/Marist College poll, as several high-profile politicians are receiving similar support from likely primary voters. NY1’s Josh Robin filed the following report.
NY1’s new poll of the Democratic mayoral primary all but concludes that no candidate has the advantage, with nearly a third of party members undecided on who should be their nominee for mayor in 2013.
In all, 32 percent don't know who they'll support. Sixteen percent support City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, followed by former nominee Bill Thompson at 15 percent and Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz at 14 percent.In single digits are City Comptroller John Liu at nine percent, Public Advocate Bill de Blasio at seven percent, Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer at six percent and publisher Tom Allon at one percent.
"Christine Quinn's doing very well in the first primary, which is fundraising, but when it comes to the actual Democratic primary, we see a top tier consisting of three candidates, potentially," said Lee Miringoff, NY1/Marist College pollster.
The poll was taken after Anthony Weiner left office, which likely scuttled his bid for mayor, too. Before resigning, Weiner led the Democratic pack, with 18 percent and 27 percent undecided.
“Politics abhors a vacuum, and right now there is that vacuum, particularly in the borough of Queens," said Miringoff.
Weiner should think again if he believes his entrance would be welcome in the Democratic field for mayor. Ditto for any other former elected official caught up in a sex scandal.
"They say time heals all wounds, and in this case I guess time doesn't heal all sex scandals,” said Miringoff.
“Stay out, Weiner,” was the resounding response of 64 percent of registered voters.
In contrast, 26 percent want him in, and 10 percent aren't sure.
Fifty-seven percent want former Governor Eliot Spitzer to keep his name off the ballot, but 33 percent said he should run. Nine percent aren't sure.
Finally, the jury’s split on Police Commissioner Ray Kelly’s chances, as 42 percent want him in, 42 percent want him to stay out, and 16 percent aren't sure.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg has said that Kelly has no interest in running, but 2013 is a long time away politically speaking. If his poll numbers stay strong, maybe the commissioner will change his mind.