A new CBS News/YouGov poll reveals Californians' views on key issues ahead of the upcoming governor's debate. The survey, conducted with 1,479 registered voters between April 23-27, 2026, highlights divisions on taxes, immigration, and housing affordability.
Core Findings
Taxes: A majority of California voters support an added state tax on billionaires, though Republicans oppose the measure. Fraud: Most voters believe there is at least some fraud in state agencies, with Republicans particularly vocal on the issue. Immigration: The Trump administration's deportation program lacks majority support, with Democrats favoring non-cooperation with ICE, while Republicans support it. Voters also doubt the administration prioritizes dangerous criminals for deportation. Housing: Three-quarters of voters say housing is unaffordable, contributing to the perception that the "California Dream" is out of reach. Homeowners prioritize insurance costs over availability. Homelessness: Voters favor more housing and mental health support to address homelessness. Student Athletes: A majority believe student athletes should play on teams matching their sex at birth, an issue that divides Democrats.
Deeper Context
Taxation and Fraud
The poll underscores a partisan divide on taxation, with Democrats largely supporting higher taxes on billionaires, while Republicans oppose the measure. Concerns about fraud in state agencies are widespread, with Republicans emphasizing the issue more than other groups. The survey suggests that addressing fraud is a high priority for most voters.
Immigration Policies
The Trump administration's deportation policies are unpopular among California voters, particularly Democrats. Many voters believe the administration does not prioritize dangerous criminals for deportation. However, Republicans support cooperation with ICE. The poll also indicates that more voters believe immigration has improved California than worsened it.
Housing and Homelessness
Housing affordability is a major concern, with three-quarters of voters calling it unaffordable. Homeowners are more concerned with insurance costs than availability. To address homelessness, voters prioritize increasing housing and supporting mental health treatments.
Student Athlete Policies
The issue of student athletes playing on teams matching their sex at birth divides Democrats, with a majority of voters supporting the requirement. This reflects broader societal debates on gender and sports participation.
The poll has a margin of error of ±4.2 points for registered voters and ±4.1 points for likely primary voters.