Tom Steyer, a gubernatorial candidate known for his contentious campaign, has taken the lead in two crucial regions of Northern California, according to a recent poll. Voters are increasingly focused on the escalating cost of living, which is shaping the race.
Steyer, a billionaire advocate for climate action, is currently ahead in both the San Francisco area and broader Northern California as the primary date of June 2 draws nearer.
In San Francisco, Steyer enjoys 34% support among likely voters, significantly outpacing his rivals. Republican contender Steve Hilton trails at 19%, while Xavier Becerra follows with 17% support.
Matt Mahan, the Mayor of San Jose, has secured 11%, with former Representative Katie Porter at 6% and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco at 5%. Meanwhile, 4% of those surveyed remain undecided, and 2% have either already cast their vote or chose not to disclose their preference.
In the wider Northern California region, Steyer leads with 26% of the vote. Bianco is next with 22%, Hilton follows with 20%, and Becerra has 17%. About 10% of voters are still uncertain about their choice.
The survey highlights that concerns over affordability continue to dominate the priorities of voters throughout California.
Cost of living emerged as the top issue swaying voters in every media market surveyed, drawing fears from at least 20% of respondents statewide.
Affordable housing ranked second in San Francisco, the Central Valley, the Central Coast and San Diego.
The survey also revealed that Californians are still deeply split over Gov. Gavin Newsom’s performance in office.
Statewide, Newsom’s approval rating stood at 49%, while 50% disapproved of his job performance.
His highest disapproval ratings were recorded in Sacramento, where 63% of respondents disapproved of the governor’s performance.
Disapproval also reached 61% in the Central Valley, 54% in San Diego and 52% in Northern California. The regional numbers also highlight the uphill battle Becerra faces as the race enters its final stretch.
According to the polling memo, Becerra is running second on the Central Coast but will need stronger performances in Los Angeles and San Francisco to win statewide.
With housing costs and everyday expenses continuing to weigh heavily on voters, the poll suggests affordability concerns remain front and center as Californians prepare to choose Newsom’s successor.
