Swalwell Leads Early in CA Governor Race

0:00On March 11th, a new poll from Emerson College shows representative Eric Swalwell leading early in California's 2026 governor primary. Among Democrats, his support jumped to 27 percent while Tom Steyer climbed to 16 percent. A lot of voters are still on the fence, especially independence, with 39 percent undecided. Meanwhile, Republicans are splitting their picks between Katie Hilton at 38 percent and Steve Bianco at 34 percent. This lean slightly towards Swalwell and Hilton, both at 12 percent. The survey highlights how the race is wide open this far out. Voters gave mixed reviews to current leaders. Governor Gavin Newsom has 45 percent approval stay wide, while President Donald Trump sits at just 28 percent. Los Angeles mayor Karen Bass fares worse locally at 24 percent approval. On the state's direction, it's nearly split, with 48 percent saying it's on the right track and 52 percent disagreeing. Homelessness weighs heavy, as 53 percent of voters think it's getting worse.

1:03When asked about dealing with the Trump administration, 64 percent want the next governor to push back, and those folks favor Swalwell add. 25 percent. Cooperation supporters lean toward Hilton and Bianco. This poll of 1,000 likely voters from March 7th through 9th comes with a 3 percentage point margin of error. With so many undecided, the field could shift quickly as candidates ramp up.