A recent poll conducted by the UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies, co-sponsored by the Los Angeles Times, indicates that President Trump's approval rating among California Republicans has decreased. The poll reveals that 76% of Republican voters in California approve of Trump's performance, down from 83% the previous year. Additionally, only 44% of Republicans strongly support Trump's performance, a decline from 57% in August 2025.
Mark DiCamillo, the poll's director, noted that this decline in approval could lead to lower Republican turnout in competitive races. He stated, "Republicans are losing some of their enthusiasm in terms of being motivated to vote."
G. Cristina Mora, co-director of the UC Berkeley institute, suggested that Trump's focus on the midterm elections could motivate Democratic voters to participate. She commented, "That might actually have a galvanizing effect on voters."
The poll also highlights challenges for Republicans in California, where only four of the state's 52 congressional districts are considered safe for the party. The Cook Political Report indicates that three additional districts are competitive, while the remaining 45 are likely or solidly Democratic. The new congressional map, approved by voters last year, was designed to favor Democrats.
The poll, conducted online in English and Spanish from September 15 to September 20, included responses from 6,989 registered California voters, with a margin of error of plus or minus 1.5 percentage points. It also found that Trump's approval has declined among Black and Latino voters, who were part of his coalition in the 2024 presidential election. Furthermore, 70% of California voters disapprove of Trump's decision to go to war in Iran, and 70% believe his immigration policies are harming the state's economy and local businesses.
As California prepares for the gubernatorial election in November, reducing the high cost of living remains a top concern for voters. A poll from June indicated that Democrat Randy Villegas holds a 4-point lead over Republican incumbent David Valadao in one of the competitive congressional districts.