California voters strongly support tougher penalties for drug use and theft but remain divided on expanding rent control. In addition, there is no clear front-runner in the 2026 race to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom, according to a new poll cited by Politico.

The survey, conducted by USC, Cal State Long Beach, and Cal Poly Pomona, reflects a conservative shift in how Californians view criminal justice, despite the state’s Democratic majority.

Nearly 58% of likely voters back Proposition 36, a ballot measure to increase penalties for drug crimes and serial theft. The measure would roll back parts of Proposition 47, a 2014 initiative that reduced prison sentences. Only 19% of voters oppose Prop 36, even as Newsom and other Democratic leaders argue it would bring back outdated “war on drugs” policies.

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“It basically shows that we’re not always as liberal of a state as the national perception,” said Christian Grose, a USC political science professor and lead pollster.

Voters are split on Prop. 33, which would allow cities to implement rent control on newer apartments. Thirty-seven percent support the measure, 33% oppose it, and the rest are undecided.

In the race to succeed Newsom, Democratic Rep. Katie Porter leads with 14%, though she hasn’t announced a campaign. Other candidates trail in single digits. The poll was conducted Sept. 12-25 and has a 2% plus-or-minus margin of error.

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California’s View on US Elections

Other highlights of this survey indicate that Vice President Kamala Harris has energized Democratic voters since leading the presidential ticket, potentially swaying down-ballot races. Harris has 57% support among likely California voters, five points higher than President Joe Biden’s earlier ratings. About 34% of voters back former President Donald Trump.

On the vice presidential front, Californians have mostly positive or mixed views on Democratic nominee Tim Walz, often describing him as “coach/teacher” and “kind.” In contrast, many voters referred to J.D. Vance, Trump’s running mate, as “liar” and “misogynist.”

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In the Senate race, Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff is poised to easily defeat Republican and former baseball player Steve Garvey, with 53% support compared to Garvey’s 34%.

Read more at Politico.