California voters likely strongly support Proposition 4, a bond measure to pay for climate change and water quality projects. Proposition 2, an education bond to fund school repairs, is also supported by a slight majority.
Mark Baldassare, PPIC’s director of statewide research, said the high level of support was surprising, especially since it’s unusual to see two $10 billion bond measures on the same ballot.
“This comes at a time when Californians are said to be worried about their economic future,” he said.
Baldassare said this speaks to how important education and climate issues are to voters.
Two ballot measures aimed at addressing housing costs are not doing well in the polls. Prop. 33, which would give local governments the power to expand rent control, is supported by 42% of likely voters. Proposition 5, which would make it easier to pass bonds for local housing projects, received 48% support.
The survey also found that most Californians say housing costs are one of the state’s biggest problems. Baldassare said there may be a disconnect based on who votes.
“California voters tend to be older and more likely to be homeowners,” he said, adding that the overall population is younger and more likely to rent.
Proposition 36, which is tough on crime, and Proposition 3, which enshrines marriage equality in the state constitution, are the most popular among voters.
The survey also found that both Gov. Gavin Newsom and the California Legislature have approval ratings below 50%.
Baldassare said these numbers are related.
“Many people are saying they don’t feel good about the direction of the state and the direction of the economy over the next 12 months,” he said.
About 60% of Californians believe the state is heading in the wrong direction, according to the report. This number has been on the rise since 2020.
When it comes to the economy, Democrats tend to be more optimistic about the future, with just over half saying things are getting better. An estimated 84% of Republicans say the situation is getting worse.
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