The upcoming California governor’s primary and Tuesday’s debate come at a time when many voters are struggling with the state’s high cost of living. More and more people feel the “California Dream” is slipping away. So, what do voters want to see change?
Democrats often view California’s economy more positively, preferring candidates who align with Governor Gavin Newsom’s policies and oppose former President Trump. Republicans, on the other hand, depict a much grimmer picture of the state’s situation.
This creates an open contest, especially among the crowded Democratic field. Currently, more voters remain undecided than support any single candidate, indicating a potential shift in sentiments.
Voters want candidates who demonstrate strong “values” and “judgment.” Democrats often emphasize the need for “experience,” while Republicans are more inclined to seek “change.” With debates shaping perceptions, the next month promises to be pivotal.
Recent surveys show a growing number of Californians consider the cost of living “unmanageable,” a sentiment that has surged since the pandemic. Young people, however, remain relatively optimistic about achieving the California Dream, especially those under 50. In contrast, older generations and many Republicans express deep concerns about economic stability.
There’s also a distinct divide in how partisans view California’s economy. Democrats generally perceive it as better than most states, believing California sets a good example nationwide. Republicans, however, believe it illustrates poor governance.
This split affects what voters want from a new governor. Democrats typically favor policies that include building more affordable housing. In contrast, Republicans prioritize tax cuts to alleviate financial strain on residents.
Gas prices are another pressing issue. Though this is a national concern, Californians feel particularly affected. Many want the next governor to consider suspending part of the state’s gas tax, though opinions are mixed on this solution. Overall, issues like jobs, inflation, and gas prices rank highest for both parties, but topics like immigration and crime matter more to Republicans, while Democrats focus on climate change and healthcare.
A survey revealed that many Californians associate rising gas prices with international conflicts, particularly involving Iran. A significant number also oppose U.S. military action in Iran, indicating that a candidate’s stance on this issue will weigh heavily on their voting decisions.
Democrats strongly desire a candidate who consistently opposes Trump, reflecting a sense of disapproval of his administration’s approach to California. Conversely, Republicans favor candidates who align with Trump’s ideology and policies.
The race is wide open, with no clear frontrunners emerging. Candidate support is fragmented, highlighting the importance of engaging undecided voters and gaining recognition. Early signs suggest that many voters, including independents, long for more options and are less inclined to vote without satisfactory choices.
This survey highlights that there is a significant number of undecided voters who could sway the primary’s outcome. They express dissatisfaction with the current candidate pool, particularly independents, emphasizing the need for broader options in the upcoming elections.
This analysis draws insights from a recent CBS News/YouGov survey, which interviewed 1,479 registered voters in California. For further details, view the complete survey data [here](https://assets1.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/cms/prod_cms_alt/file/2026/04/28/9e63213d-5272-470e-8877-2fd31d034f6b/cbsnews_20260428_mon.pdf).
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California, California Governor's Race
