California voters want their next senator to oppose Trump if he is elected, prioritizing the protection of state interests.

The poll, conducted by the UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies, reveals that nearly 60% of respondents want the next senator to prioritize defending California’s interests and resisting federal legislation that could undermine state laws if Trump returns to the White House. This sentiment is particularly pronounced among Schiff supporters, with over 80% emphasizing the importance of protecting state interests. In contrast, if Vice President Kamala Harris were to win the presidency, the priorities shift, with a majority of voters favoring a focus on legislation that benefits California. The findings illustrate the political landscape in California, where voters are keenly aware of the implications of federal leadership on state governance.

Poll Insights

• Voter Preferences: Approximately 53% of likely voters support Democratic Rep. Adam B. Schiff, while 36% favor Republican Steve Garvey. The remaining 11% are undecided.
• Bipartisan Collaboration: Despite a desire to oppose Trump, 50% of voters also want the next senator to pursue bipartisan legislation.
• Regional Support: Garvey shows stronger support in areas like the Inland Empire and Central Valley, but Schiff maintains a significant lead in populous regions such as Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area.

Implications of Trump’s Potential Election

If Trump is elected, the poll suggests that California’s next senator should take an adversarial stance, with 49% of voters supporting a focus on challenging the president’s executive orders. This reflects a broader trend in California’s political climate, where the electorate seeks representatives who will actively engage in defending state rights and interests against federal actions perceived as harmful.

Conclusion

The poll results underscore a critical moment in California politics, highlighting the state’s role as a potential counterbalance to federal leadership. As the election approaches, the priorities of California voters will play a significant role in shaping the strategies of candidates vying for the Senate seat left vacant by the late Dianne Feinstein.