BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — A new CBS News/YouGov poll released just a day before Tuesday’s gubernatorial debate shows a wide-open race for California governor and highlights the key issues likely to dominate the stage.
Among likely voters, Steve Hilton leads with 16%, followed closely by Tom Steyer at 15% and Xavier Becerra at 13%. Chad Bianco polls at 10%, while Katie Porter comes in at 9%.
Photo shows the eight top polling candidates who are slated to face off in the CBS California Governor’s Debate on Tues., April 28, 2026. (CBS Los Angeles)
Still, the biggest number may be undecided voters — 26% say they haven’t made up their minds, underscoring just how much could change after the debate.
RELATED: Eight candidates to debate at Pomona College as California governor’s race stays wide open
Affordability dominates voters’ concerns
The poll shows Californians are overwhelmingly focused on affordability — an issue expected to take center stage during Tuesday’s debate.
70% say the cost of living is unmanageable in their areaEconomy and jobs (84%) and inflation (75%) rank as top voting issuesNearly half (45%) say lowering taxes should be the top priority for the next governor
Gas prices remain a major concern as well.
57% say California’s environmental policies are not worth the added cost at the pumpMore than half say gas prices are at least difficult for their finances
In an aerial view, a customer pumps gas into his car at an Arco station with gas prices over $5 a gallon on March 11, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
Voters split on direction of the state economy
The poll paints a mixed — but largely negative — picture of how voters feel about California’s economy.
53% rate the economy as bad (fairly or very)39% say California’s economy is worse than the rest of the country
At the same time, 53% approve of Governor Gavin Newsom’s job performance, showing a divided electorate heading into the election.
Trump factor looms over the race
The poll also highlights how national politics — particularly Donald Trump — could shape the governor’s race.
69% disapprove of Trump’s job performanceA majority (56%) say they want a candidate who opposes TrumpJust 22% want a candidate who supports Trump
President Donald Trump departs after speaking at an event for NCAA national champions in the State Dining Room of the White House, Tuesday, April 21, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
That dynamic could influence how candidates position themselves in the debate.
Foreign policy also in play: Iran conflict
While the governor’s race is largely focused on state issues, the poll shows global tensions are still a factor for voters.
67% oppose U.S. military action against IranAbout 73% say a candidate’s stance on the issue matters at least somewhatDebate could sway voters
With more than a quarter of voters undecided — and 76% saying debates are at least somewhat important — Tuesday’s event could be a turning point in the race.
Candidates will have a chance to address the issues voters say matter most: affordability, the economy, taxes, and public safety — while also navigating national political divides.
RELATED: Statewide CBS debate to feature 8 gubernatorial candidates on April 28 ahead of primary
How to watch
You can watch:
The debate is a joint venture between CBS Los Angeles, CBS Bay Area and CBS Sacramento and is being hosted in collaboration with the Asian Pacific American Public Affairs Association at Pomona College’s Bridges Auditorium in Claremont. The debate will broadcast live on most CBS stations statewide, including here in Bakersfield.
For full candidate interviews with Eyewitness News, you can watch them here.