Tom Steyer Gains Traction in Northern California Amid Affordability Concerns

Tom Steyer, the billionaire climate activist and gubernatorial candidate, is making strides in two significant Northern California areas as voters increasingly focus on the high cost of living, according to a recent poll.

As the June 2 primary approaches, Steyer is leading in both the San Francisco market and Northern California.

In San Francisco, Steyer garnered 34% support among likely voters, significantly outpacing his competitors. Republican Steve Hilton came in second with 19%, while Xavier Becerra attracted 17% of the vote.

Other candidates like San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan received 11%, former Congressman Katie Porter managed 6%, and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco got 5%. Four percent of respondents were undecided, and two percent had either already voted or chose not to answer.

The survey highlights that affordability remains the predominant concern for voters across the state. For instance, the cost of living is the top issue influencing voters in every media market surveyed, with at least 20% expressing concern.

Meanwhile, in Northern California, Steyer also led with 26% of the vote. Bianco followed closely with 22%, then Hilton at 20%, and Becerra with 17%. A notable 10% of voters were still undecided.

Affordable housing emerged as the second major issue in regions like San Francisco, the Central Valley, Central Coast, and San Diego.

The poll further reveals that Californians are divided over Governor Gavin Newsom’s performance. His approval rating stands at 49%, but an equal 50% expressed disapproval.

Disapproval is particularly high in Sacramento, where 63% of respondents voiced dissatisfaction, followed by 61% in the Central Valley, 54% in San Diego, and 52% in Northern California. These regional statistics indicate the challenges Becerra faces as the race intensifies.

Although Becerra is ranked second on the Central Coast, stronger performances are crucial in Los Angeles and San Francisco for a chance at winning statewide.

With housing and daily living costs looming large in voters’ minds, it seems affordability will play a pivotal role as Californians gear up to select Governor Newsom’s successor.