California Voters Express Dissatisfaction but Favor Biden in 2024
The Big Picture
California, traditionally a Democratic stronghold, is seeing a growing sense of political dissatisfaction among voters. While President Joe Biden holds a commanding lead over Donald Trump, voter discontent is at an all-time high, with many expressing frustration over their party’s chosen candidates and the state of the political landscape.
Polling from the Independent Center reveals that 65% of California voters view the political climate negatively, and many feel neither party has put forward its best candidate. Despite this, economic concerns and immigration remain key priorities as voters look ahead to November.
Zooming In
Candidate Approval in California
We asked registered voters: “How do you view the current political climate in America?”
- 65% of voters responded negatively, signaling widespread discontent with the national political discourse.
When asked if they believed their party had chosen the best candidate:
- 39% of voters said the Democrats have not selected their best candidate.
- 59% of voters said the same about the Republicans.
The results highlight a desire for political reform, with Californians feeling disconnected from both major parties and uninspired by the frontrunners on the left and right.
Key Issues for California Voters
To determine what matters most to California voters, we asked: “What is the most pressing issue in America today?”
- 26% of voters ranked jobs and the economy as their top issue.
- 18% of voters ranked immigration as the most pressing concern.
- Other notable concerns included taxes (9%), abortion (10%), police reform (7%), and national security (2%).
These findings confirm that economic stability and immigration policy will be the primary drivers of voter decisions in California, even as social issues like abortion remain relevant.
Biden Holds a Substantial Lead in California
When asked: “If this year’s presidential election were between Republican Donald Trump, Democrat Joe Biden, and an Independent/third-party candidate, how would you vote?”
- 59% of voters said they would vote for Biden.
- 34% of voters said they would vote for Trump.
Despite Biden’s strong lead, voter uncertainty remains:
- 14% of California voters said they expect to change their minds.
- 15% of voters remain unsure about their final choice.
While Biden has a firm grip on California, a meaningful portion of the electorate remains open to persuasion, particularly among independent and undecided voters.
Independent Lens
The mood among California voters mirrors national trends of growing discontent with the political system. While Biden maintains a comfortable lead, many voters express frustration with both parties and a desire for change.
Key takeaways from the data:
- Economic and immigration policies will be pivotal in shaping voter decisions.
- Biden leads, but voter uncertainty remains—especially among independents.
- Dissatisfaction with both major parties signals a growing appetite for alternative leadership.
With nearly 30% of voters either uncertain or open to switching their vote, both parties—and particularly independent candidates—have an opportunity to engage and persuade.
To stay informed and explore the full survey data, join the Independent Center for exclusive insights into voter sentiment and key election trends.
