Steve Hilton (Republican) leads with 17% support, drawing from Republican and independent voters.
Eric Swalwell (Democrat) and Chad Bianco (Republican) follow closely at 14% each.
Gavin Newsom's approval rating is slightly underwater, with 44% approval and 45% disapproval.
A majority of California voters (53%) have considered leaving the state due to the high cost of living.
The economy is the top issue for 37% of voters.
A recent Emerson College Polling/Inside California Politics survey reveals a surprising frontrunner in the 2026 California gubernatorial race: Republican Steve Hilton. This development is noteworthy considering California's strong Democratic lean and the fact that the state hasn't elected a Republican to statewide office in two decades. The poll highlights a fractured electorate, with Hilton leading among Republicans and independents, while Democratic support is divided among multiple candidates including Eric Swalwell and Katie Porter.
The top-two primary system in California means that the leading candidates, regardless of party affiliation, will advance to the general election. This creates a pathway for Hilton or Bianco to potentially secure a spot in the November runoff, even without garnering a majority of the vote in the primary.
Concerns about the cost of living in California are also evident in the poll, with a majority of voters having considered leaving the state. This sentiment is further reflected in Governor Newsom's slightly negative approval rating. The economy is the dominant concern among voters, surpassing issues like housing affordability and threats to democracy.
Q: What is California's primary system?
California uses a top-two primary system where the two candidates with the most votes, regardless of party, advance to the general election.
Q: What are the main issues for California voters?
The economy, housing affordability, and threats to democracy are key concerns.
The California governor race in 2026 is highly competitive, with a Republican leading in early polling.
Economic concerns and the high cost of living are major issues for California voters.
The top-two primary system could lead to unexpected outcomes in the election.
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