(MENAFN) Several key contests in the US states of New Jersey, Virginia, and New York City remain highly competitive on the eve of Tuesday’s elections, with Democrats holding narrow leads and polls suggesting tightening margins, according to reports.

In New Jersey’s gubernatorial race, a recent poll conducted from Oct. 25–30 showed Democrat Mikie Sherrill with a razor-thin 0.9-point advantage over Republican Jack Ciattarelli, at 50.2% to 49.3%. The survey, which included more than 1,600 likely voters, reflects a nearly even divide in the state. Former President Barack Obama appeared at a rally for Sherrill earlier this month, emphasizing the race’s importance for Democrats. Early voting data indicates that Democratic mail-in ballots are outpacing Republican returns by about 41 percentage points, slightly higher than last year’s margin.

In Virginia, Governor Abigail Spanberger holds a stronger position, leading Republican challenger Winsome Earle-Sears 56% to 44% in one poll. However, the attorney general race is much closer, with Democrat Jerra Jones narrowly ahead of incumbent Jason Miyares, 51% to 49%. Early voting numbers suggest increased Democratic participation compared with 2024, though analysts warn that Election Day swings could still alter outcomes.

In New York City’s mayoral race, the latest poll shows incumbent Zohran Mamdani ahead with 41%, followed by former Governor Andrew Cuomo at 34% and Republican Curtis Sliwa at 24%.

The seven-point gap has narrowed as Cuomo gains support among moderate and older Democrats. Analysts noted that higher turnout among older voters has been offset by renewed enthusiasm among younger voters backing Mamdani.

In a nationally aired interview on Sunday, US President Donald Trump sharply criticized Mamdani, calling him a “communist” and claiming that “he’s far worse than a socialist.” Trump also made a personal comment about Mamdani’s appearance, a remark that drew media attention. The interview marked Trump’s first appearance on the program since settling a previous lawsuit.

Mamdani, who identifies as a democratic socialist, continues to campaign alongside prominent progressive figures such as Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Meanwhile, reports revealed that Obama personally called Mamdani over the weekend, commending his campaign and offering to serve as a “sounding board.” Their half-hour conversation reportedly covered policy and staffing challenges, with Obama saying, “Your campaign has been impressive to watch.”

Although Obama has not issued a formal endorsement, his outreach was notable given his general reluctance to get involved in mayoral races. Mamdani has also received support from New York Governor Kathy Hochul and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

Trump’s sharp criticisms underscore the growing national attention on the New York race, which has become a focal point for ideological clashes within both major parties.

A separate nationwide poll released Sunday found that 46% of registered voters said they would vote for a Democratic congressional candidate if the midterms were held today, compared to 44% for Republicans, with 9% undecided. The same survey indicated that 59% of Americans disapprove of Trump’s job performance, and 64% believe he is overextending presidential powers. Analysts noted that young Hispanic men—who leaned Republican in 2024—are now evenly split between the two major parties.

While early-voting data suggests modest Democratic momentum, experts caution that heavy turnout on Election Day could still shift the balance in several races.

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