Dave Portnoy Threatens to Pull Barstool Sports from NYC Over “Communist” Zohran Mamdani’s Win
In a fiery outburst that quickly went viral, Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy threatened to pull his media empire out of New York City following Zohran Mamdani’s shocking mayoral victory. Portnoy, never one to shy away from controversy, called Mamdani a “Communist” and said he “hates the guy,” sparking heated debate about politics, business, and freedom of speech in the post-election landscape. The moment perfectly captured the collision of personality, ideology, and economics that has long defined both New York City and the outspoken media mogul behind Barstool Sports.
A Political Earthquake in New York City
Zohran Mamdani’s unexpected win in the 2025 New York City mayoral race sent shockwaves through the city’s political and business community. Known for his left-wing activism and membership in the Democratic Socialists of America, Mamdani built his campaign on promises to freeze rents, expand public housing, and raise taxes on wealthy corporations. To some New Yorkers, especially young progressives and working-class voters, his victory represented a rebellion against decades of establishment politics.
But for many in the private sector, it was cause for alarm. Mamdani’s critics quickly painted him as too radical, warning that his policies could drive jobs and investment out of the city. Dave Portnoy was among the first—and loudest—to sound the alarm.
Portnoy’s Outburst
Shortly after election results were confirmed, Portnoy took to social media with his trademark blend of outrage and humor. In a video clip that quickly gained millions of views, he fumed:
“I can’t believe this. New York City actually elected a Communist. That’s it. I’m done. We’re not paying insane taxes to a guy who wants to kill business. We’re looking at moving Barstool out of here immediately. I hate the guy.”
He doubled down in follow-up interviews, describing Mamdani’s win as “a nightmare for anyone who actually works for a living.” He accused the new mayor of “hating success” and vowed to start exploring real estate options across the Hudson River in New Jersey, particularly in Hoboken or Jersey City.
“I’ve already told my finance guys,” Portnoy said. “Start looking for space. We’re not funding this insanity.”
The Business Side of the Threat
Though Portnoy’s tirade was characteristically dramatic, there was a real business concern beneath the bluster. Mamdani’s proposed tax hikes and rent controls could potentially increase operating costs for companies like Barstool Sports, which maintains a large office in Manhattan. New York City’s already high taxes and cost of living have long been sore points for business owners, and Mamdani’s policy agenda only intensified those worries.
Portnoy has built Barstool around a brand of unapologetic independence—anti-establishment, anti-censorship, and proudly capitalist. The idea of doing business under a self-described socialist leader clearly struck him as intolerable. In his view, staying in New York under Mamdani’s administration would be tantamount to endorsing an ideology he despises.
However, as several analysts pointed out, moving an entire media operation isn’t as simple as Portnoy made it sound. Barstool employs hundreds of staff members in New York, many of whom rely on the city’s cultural energy and infrastructure for their work. While moving to New Jersey or another state could offer tax benefits, it would also disrupt production, logistics, and talent recruitment.
A History of Outspoken Defiance
This isn’t the first time Portnoy has courted controversy over politics. Over the years, the Barstool founder has clashed with figures across the spectrum—accusing liberal politicians of “ruining business” while also sparring with conservatives who’ve criticized his company’s edgy content. His public persona thrives on confrontation, and he has built a loyal fan base by refusing to “play nice” with political correctness or elite opinion.
That defiance, however, comes with risks. Portnoy’s decision to label Mamdani a “Communist” drew backlash from many corners of social media, with critics accusing him of exaggerating and fearmongering. Supporters of the new mayor defended Mamdani’s agenda as “common sense reform,” arguing that Portnoy’s reaction showed how disconnected wealthy media figures are from ordinary New Yorkers struggling to afford rent.
Still, the Barstool audience—largely young, entrepreneurial, and skeptical of government overreach—rallied behind Portnoy. Many fans praised him for “taking a stand” against policies they believe punish success and innovation.
The Broader Debate: Business vs. Ideology
The clash between Portnoy and Mamdani reflects a broader cultural and economic divide in modern America. On one side stand progressive leaders advocating wealth redistribution, affordable housing, and stronger workers’ rights. On the other are entrepreneurs like Portnoy, who argue that such policies stifle growth and drive businesses away.
New York City has long walked a tightrope between these two forces. Its identity as both a global financial hub and a center for progressive politics often leads to friction. Mamdani’s victory may mark a turning point in that balance—one that could reshape the city’s economic climate for years to come.
If Portnoy follows through on his threat to leave, he would join a growing list of high-profile business figures and companies that have relocated out of New York in recent years, citing taxes and bureaucracy as key reasons. Financial firms, tech startups, and even entertainment companies have begun migrating to Florida, Texas, and New Jersey—states with friendlier tax environments and looser regulations.
Reality Check: Will Barstool Actually Move?
While Portnoy’s words were bold, the likelihood of an immediate move remains uncertain. Sources within Barstool suggest that, for now, the company is “reviewing options” but has made no formal decisions. Moving would be a logistical challenge, and the company’s media identity is deeply tied to New York’s culture and energy.
Some insiders believe Portnoy’s outburst was partly strategic—an attention-grabbing statement meant to spark discussion and apply pressure on city leadership. “Dave knows how to create a headline,” one staff member reportedly said. “When he’s mad, he talks big. But that doesn’t mean we’re packing boxes tomorrow.”
Indeed, the timing of his comments coincided with broader conversations about how businesses will adapt under Mamdani’s leadership. By threatening to leave, Portnoy inserted himself at the center of that conversation, turning a local election result into a national debate about ideology and economics.
Mamdani’s Response
As for Mamdani, he appeared unfazed by the threats. In a brief statement, he dismissed Portnoy’s remarks as “predictable theatrics from a millionaire media personality.” He added, “If Mr. Portnoy believes fair wages, affordable housing, and basic human dignity are ‘Communist,’ then perhaps he’s telling on himself.”
Mamdani’s response only deepened the divide. His supporters praised his composure, while Portnoy’s fans accused him of arrogance and anti-business sentiment. What began as a simple social media rant had now escalated into a cultural battle emblematic of America’s deep political polarization.
The Larger Picture
Beyond the headlines, this feud highlights the growing tension between progressive governance and entrepreneurial independence. As more cities experiment with redistributive policies and social-justice economics, business owners like Portnoy will continue to test how far they can—or will—go in resisting them.
Whether Barstool stays or leaves, Portnoy’s comments have already made an impact. They have forced both sides to confront uncomfortable questions: Can New York remain a global business capital under a socialist mayor? And can entrepreneurs like Portnoy thrive in an era where success itself is often politicized?
In the end, Portnoy’s outrage isn’t just about taxes or rent control—it’s about identity. Barstool’s brand has always been tied to rebellion, irreverence, and refusal to conform. Mamdani’s vision for New York represents everything Portnoy’s empire pushes against: regulation, collectivism, and cultural restraint.
For now, the battle lines are drawn. Whether Barstool Sports packs up its Manhattan office or stays to fight another day, one thing is certain: Dave Portnoy has once again turned a political moment into a national conversation—and in doing so, reminded everyone that in the world of media and politics, outrage is still the most powerful currency of all.
