California voters overwhelmingly believe the state is headed in the wrong direction and cite housing as their most pressing issue, according to a new statewide poll released by the University of California, Irvine’s School of Social Ecology.
Conducted May through June and based on a representative sample of more than 4,600 adults, the UCI‑OC Poll reveals that a two-to-one majority of Californians feel the state is off course, including 79% of Republicans, about 64% of independents and a divided Democratic electorate.
Housing topped the list of public concerns: 70% prioritized addressing California’s housing crisis, and 33% ranked it as their single greatest concern, nearly double the number who selected health care.
The survey also found President Donald Trump facing a ratings challenge, with roughly 63% of Californians expressing disapproval compared to 33% approval. His approval rating reflects a sharp and continuing partisan divide.
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Newsom’s Approval Rating Rebounds
In contrast, Gov. Gavin Newsom’s approval has rebounded, with 56% viewing him favorably following his publicized clash with federal authorities over immigration enforcement.
Regarding their choice for California’s next governor, 40% of Californians are unsure but 24% of potential voters overall would vote for former vice president Kamala Harris. Republican billionaire business Rick Caruso is polling the next highest at 9%.
The full findings are detailed in the July 2 poll report.
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