New Yorkers support Bloomberg's Styrofoam ban, still mixed on soda: Poll

New Yorkers may be divided over the mayor's soda ban but a majority have no qualms about prohibiting some of the cups those drinks come in.

A Quinnipiac University Poll released Thursday found that 69% of New Yorkers approved Mayor Michael Bloomberg's proposal to ban plastic-foam food and drink containers.

Maurice Carroll, director of the Quinnipiac University Polling Institute, said the results were surprising because there rarely was this much support for the mayor's health programs at the outset.

"Even Staten Islanders, who have not been too receptive to other so-called 'Nanny Government' initiatives, approve of this one because they still live with the remains of the Fresh Kills Landfill," he said in a statement.

Bloomberg announced his plan during his State of the City last month and said it would help make New York greener.

The proposal is still in the early stages and needs City Council approval before it's a done deal.

The plan to restrict the sale of sugary drinks greater than 16 ounces is set to go in effect on March 12, pending a lawsuit by the soda industry -- and according to the poll, most of the city's soda lovers are going to have to accept it kicking and screaming.

About 51% of New Yorkers still oppose the ban, especially those who live in the outer boroughs. Polled Manhattan residents were the only ones that approved the plan, with a 57% majority.

Quinnipiac also asked New Yorkers which mayor in recent history was tops.

Rudy Giuliani led the list with 31% followed by Ed Koch, with 25%, Bloomberg with 24%, David Dinkins, and John Lindsay, each with 6% and Abe Beame, with 1%.

Carroll noted the ranking wasn't too politically objective.

"[Koch] and Bloomberg split the Democratic vote and are tied behind Giuliani, who dominates among Republicans," he said.