Overview
- The Public Policy Institute of California poll, conducted Sept. 4–10 and released Thursday, shows Becerra leading 60% to 38% among likely voters.
- Voter loyalty is nearly absolute inside the parties, with 93% of Democrats supporting Becerra and 92% of Republicans backing Hilton, while independents favor Becerra 57% to 38%.
- Economic concerns are front and center: 65% of respondents say candidates' positions on affordability are very important and 71% expect bad financial times for the state over the next 12 months.
- Regional differences and turnout are the main uncertainties, as Hilton leads 52% to 46% in the Central Valley and his campaign calls the PPIC numbers misleading on GOP turnout.
- With under two months until Election Day, both campaigns plan heavier advertising and a Sept. 30 debate that could reshape turnout and test whether the current polling gap holds.