California voters’ disapproval of Gavin Newsom hits highest level since 2024, poll shows

More California voters are now unhappy with Governor Gavin Newsom than at any point since 2024, according to a new poll.

A new survey by Emerson College found that 45% of voters disapprove of the governor’s job performance— the highest number since October 2024 and a six-point increase from December 2025.

Among 1,000 registered voters, Newsom had an approval rate of 44%, a three-point drop from December, the poll found.

In October 2024, the governor’s disapproval rating stood at just 43%.

Newsom’s office did not respond to a request for comment regarding the figures.

The poll also asked voters about the top issues facing Californians, with 37% citing the economy as their No. 1 concern — up three points from December. Nineteen percent cited housing affordability as the state’s top issue.

Critics have argued that California’s high cost of living — particularly soaring housing prices, elevated gas costs, and rising insurance premiums — has worsened during Newsom’s tenure.

They point to strict environmental regulations, limits on new oil drilling permits, and slow housing construction as contributing factors to persistently high consumer prices.

A whopping 53% percent of voters said they have considered leaving the state over affordability concerns, the poll found.

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Business groups have also raised concerns about regulatory hurdles and taxation.

Newsom has recently sought to raise his profile, drawing criticism from some Republicans for attending global events such as the World Economic Forum in Davos and the Munich Security Conference while economic frustrations persisted at home.

The California Democrat has been laying the groundwork for a potential 2028 presidential run as his term as governor nears its end.

The Emerson College poll also found Republican and staunch Newsom critic Steve Hilton opening up a lead in the governor’s race.

Seventeen percent of voters named the Fox News contributor their top choice, with Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell and GOP hopeful Sheriff Chad Bianco tied for second at 14%.