Dave Portnoy Claims Wealthy Backers Support His Mayoral Bid

WHO:

NY Post - Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, is considering a run for mayor of New York City against Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Fox News - Zohran Mamdani is the current mayor of New York City.

WHAT:

NY Post - Portnoy stated that “billionaire after billionaire” has offered to help fund his potential mayoral campaign.

Fox News - Portnoy expressed that he has considered running for mayor due to concerns about New York's Democratic socialist victories.

Fox News - Portnoy mentioned that he feels a civic duty to run for office, stating, "If I’m not going to do it, who’s going to try to do it?"

Fox News - Portnoy described the political situation in New York as "very crazy, dangerous, shocking."

WHERE:

NY Post - The discussion about Portnoy's potential candidacy took place in New York City.

Fox News - Portnoy made his remarks during an appearance on "The Adam Carolla Show."

WHEN:

Fox News - Portnoy previously left open the possibility of challenging Mamdani during a June 29 appearance at New York’s 92NY.

Fox News - The Democratic House primaries in which Mamdani backed candidates occurred on June 23.

WHY:

Fox News - Portnoy criticized the rise of socialism in New York, questioning why individuals who fled "disaster" countries are promoting it in the U.S.

Fox News - He believes that organized activists have an advantage in low-turnout primaries, as many voters are preoccupied with work and family.

HOW:

Fox News - Portnoy indicated that his interest in running for mayor fluctuates, depending on the political climate and his frustrations with current leadership.

(UPDATED July 16, 2026 16:23 UTC)

Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports, is considering a run for mayor of New York City, potentially challenging the current mayor, Zohran Mamdani. Portnoy has stated that numerous billionaires are willing to help fund his campaign, driven by his concerns over the rise of socialism in the city and a sense of civic duty to take action. He described the political landscape as "very crazy, dangerous, shocking," and noted that his interest in running fluctuates with the political climate and his frustrations with the current leadership.