Mark S. Mellman ’78

Mark died from pancreatic cancer Nov. 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C.

He was a dominant force in Democratic opinion research for more than 40 years. He shaped American political advocacy for Israel, founding the Democratic Majority for Israel in 2019 and working extensively with AIPAC.

While at Princeton, Mark also served as executive director of the Committee of Concerned Scientists, graduating on the five-year plan to balance both roles. He earned a master’s degree at Yale and started a Ph.D. but left in 1981 to run polling for an underdog primary candidate who overcame his party-endorsed opponent and then won the general election. Mark never looked back, helping 30 senators, 12 governors, and dozens of representatives win seats. His highest profile race was John Kerry’s unsuccessful 2004 presidential run.

Classmates remember Mark as an insightful thinker and masterful raconteur, with the ability to make a room roar with laughter and then inspire them into action.

Alongside political races, Mark also worked extensively for corporate and issues-oriented clients. He had the stature and commitment to take on only clients and causes he believed in deeply, and the dedication to work closely with pollsters of a broad range of political orientations.

We send heartfelt condolences to Mindy and their family.