A recent poll reveals that a majority of California’s registered voters believe Governor Gavin Newsom is more focused on his presidential ambitions than addressing the state’s challenges. According to a survey conducted by UC Berkeley’s Institute of Governmental Studies and co-sponsored by the Los Angeles Times, 54% of voters think Newsom is prioritizing his future national prospects, while only 26% feel he is concentrating on solving California’s problems.
Despite the speculation, Newsom has consistently stated that he is not currently considering a presidential run. He mentioned in a recent interview that he would need a compelling vision to justify entering the race. The poll results come as Newsom navigates his role as governor amidst a politically divided nation, with President Donald Trump beginning his second term.
Voters in California are evenly split on Newsom’s performance as governor, with 46% approving and 46% disapproving. The poll also indicates that Californians are divided on Newsom’s ability to effectively represent the state’s interests in dealings with the Trump administration, with 48% expressing confidence and 45% lacking confidence.
The survey highlights the challenges Newsom faces from both conservative and progressive critics. Conservatives have criticized his liberal policies, such as offering state-sponsored healthcare to undocumented immigrants, while progressives have taken issue with his moderate stances on certain issues.
The poll also shows that Californians are concerned about the impact of federal policies on the state, particularly regarding tariffs, healthcare, and environmental issues. Nearly two-thirds of voters anticipate negative effects from Trump’s proposed tariffs on California businesses and agriculture.
As Newsom prepares to unveil his updated budget plan later this month, he faces pressure to address the state’s financial challenges, including the costly expansion of healthcare coverage for undocumented immigrants.
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