California voters are growing increasingly unhappy with Governor Gavin Newsom, reaching the highest disapproval level seen since 2024, according to a new poll. Apparently, soaring rent and gas prices don’t count as “good vibes” governance.
A fresh survey from Emerson College shows that 45 percent of voters now disapprove of Newsom’s job performance — the worst showing since October 2024 and a six-point jump from December 2025. His approval rating sits at 44 percent, down three points from December. Back in October 2024, his disapproval was 43 percent, which now looks like the good old days for Team Newsom.
Newsom’s office declined to comment on the poll results — which is probably wise, since the numbers are doing all the talking.
When voters were asked about the biggest problems facing California, 37 percent pointed to the economy as their top concern, up three points since December. Another 19 percent said housing affordability is the state’s most serious issue. Critics say California’s sky-high cost of living — from outrageous housing prices to elevated gas costs and rising insurance premiums — has only gotten worse under Newsom’s watch.
They blame strict environmental regulations, limits on new oil drilling permits, and sluggish housing construction for keeping prices painfully high. And voters seem to agree: a massive 53 percent said they’ve considered leaving the state because they simply can’t afford it anymore. Sunshine is nice, but it doesn’t pay the mortgage.
Business groups are also sounding alarms about regulatory barriers and high taxes, warning that these policies make it harder for companies to stay and grow in the Golden State.
Meanwhile, Newsom has been busy boosting his international profile, drawing criticism from Republicans for attending global gatherings like the World Economic Forum and the Munich Security Conference while Californians struggle with everyday economic stress back home. Nothing says “I feel your pain” like jetting off to Europe during a cost-of-living crisis.
The Emerson poll also shows Republican and longtime Newsom critic Steve Hilton opening up a lead in the governor’s race, with 17 percent of voters naming him as their top choice. Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell and GOP contender Chad Bianco are tied for second at 14 percent each.
All signs point to a frustrated electorate that’s ready for something new. With dissatisfaction rising and voters focused on real-world issues like affordability and jobs, this could be the moment when California finally decides to trade excuses for solutions — and that’s a hopeful sign for the state’s future.
