Controversial gubernatorial hopeful Tom Steyer has surged ahead in two pivotal Northern California regions, a new poll reveals, as voters zero in on the soaring cost of living.
The billionaire climate crusader is now leading the pack in both the San Francisco market and Northern California as the June 2 primary approaches.
In San Francisco, Steyer garnered 34% support among likely voters, well ahead of the rest of the field. Republican Steve Hilton came in second at 19%, followed by Xavier Becerra at 17%.
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan received 11%, former Rep. Katie Porter drew 6%, and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco garnered 5%. Four percent of respondents were undecided, while 2% had already voted or declined to answer.
Steyer also topped the field in Northern California, where he received 26% of the vote. Bianco followed with 22%, Hilton drew 20%, and Becerra received 17%. Ten percent of voters remained undecided.
The poll found that worries over affordability continue to overshadow all other voter concerns across the Golden State.
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.
