Statewide — A Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) survey released last week shows that California voters are increasingly focused on economic concerns as the state’s primary issue heading into the 2026 election season. With inflation, rising housing costs, and national economic uncertainty weighing heavily on residents, the survey highlights that the economy is on the minds of Californians more than any other issue.
According to the survey, 73% of likely voters in California expect “bad times financially” in the next year, signaling deep economic pessimism across party lines.
“About three in four California adults (75%) and likely voters (73%) say the country will have bad times financially during the next 12 months,” the report notes, reflecting widespread concerns about an uncertain economic future.
Housing affordability remains a major strain for many residents, particularly in regions like Los Angeles and the Inland Empire. Two-thirds of Californians (65%) report that housing costs are a significant problem, with renters bearing the brunt. “Nearly all Californians see this as a problem, with two in three saying it is a big problem (65%) and three in ten saying it is somewhat of a problem (31%),” the survey finds, underscoring the pressure on residents already struggling with high living costs.
In addition to economic issues, the survey sheds light on growing dissatisfaction with the nation’s political climate. President Donald Trump’s approval rating is low, with only 25% of adults and 29% of likely voters approving of his performance. In contrast, 72% of voters express disapproval of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the majority oppose National Guard deployments for law enforcement in California cities.
The survey also reveals that voters are already paying close attention to the 2026 gubernatorial election, with Democratic candidate Katie Porter currently leading. However, significant voter dissatisfaction with the current pool of candidates hints at a potential shift in California’s political landscape as the state prepares for an election that could alter the course of its economic policies.
