Dave Portnoy threatens to pull Barstool

Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy has threatened to close the company’s Manhattan office following the election of Zohran Mamdani as New York City’s new mayor.

Portnoy criticized the 34-year-old Democratic socialist, calling him a “Communist” who will “destroy the business climate” in the city.

During a livestream, Portnoy voiced his frustration, saying, “I hate the guy. A thirty-something Communist running New York City who’s never had a job and hates America — doesn’t seem like the best.”

He revealed that he has asked his finance team to explore new office locations in Hoboken or Jersey City as possible alternatives.

Although he admitted he’s seriously considering the move, Portnoy said he doesn’t want to make a decision that would disrupt the lives of his employees.

Mamdani’s victory, built on policies like rent freezes and expanding public housing, marks a significant shift to the left in New York City politics.

Portnoy, whose company is reportedly valued at about $600 million, said a relocation could serve as “a principled stand” against what he sees as the city’s growing hostility toward business.