Gavin Newsom’s disapproval rating climbs to 45%, highest since 2024: Poll

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA: California Governor Gavin Newsom is facing his highest level of voter disapproval since 2024, according to a new Emerson College survey released in February 2026.

The poll signals growing frustration among voters, particularly over economic pressures and the state’s high cost of living. The findings come as Newsom continues to raise his national profile while nearing the end of his current term.

Newsom disapproval hits 45% in new Emerson College poll

According to the Emerson College survey of 1,000 registered voters, 45% of respondents now disapprove of Gavin Newsom’s job performance. That marks the highest disapproval rating recorded for the governor since October 2024 and represents a six-point jump from December 2025.

Meanwhile, Newsom’s approval rating slipped to 44%, a three-point drop from December, the poll found. For comparison, the governor’s disapproval rating stood at 43% in October 2024, underscoring the recent upward trend in voter dissatisfaction.

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

California voters cite economy, housing as top concerns

The survey also highlighted the issues weighing most heavily on Californians. The economy emerged as the top concern, with 37% of voters naming it their No. 1 issue, up three points from December. Housing affordability followed, with 19% of respondents identifying it as the state’s biggest challenge.

Critics have increasingly argued that California’s high cost of living has worsened during Gavin Newsom’s tenure. They specifically point to soaring housing prices, elevated gas costs, and rising insurance premiums as major pressure points for residents. Some critics also blame strict environmental regulations, limits on new oil drilling permits, and slow housing construction for contributing to persistently high consumer prices across the state.

One of the more striking findings in the Emerson College poll was the number of voters who say affordability concerns are pushing them to consider relocating. A notable 53% of respondents said they have thought about leaving California due to the high cost of living.

Business groups have also voiced concerns, particularly about regulatory hurdles and taxation, which they argue make operating in the state more difficult. The numbers underscore the political challenge facing Newsom as economic anxieties remain front and center for many voters.

Steve Hilton leads early California governor race poll

The poll also offered an early snapshot of the political landscape ahead of California’s next gubernatorial race.

According to the survey, Republican and longtime Newsom critic Steve Hilton currently leads the field, with 17% of voters naming the former Fox News host as their top choice.

Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell and GOP hopeful Sheriff Chad Bianco were tied for second place, each drawing 14% support.

The polling shift comes as Gavin Newsom has sought to expand his national visibility, drawing criticism from some Republicans for attending major global gatherings such as the World Economic Forum in Davos and the Munich Security Conference while economic frustrations persisted at home.