A new POLITICO‑Citrin Center‑Possibility Lab poll shows that 62% of California voters favor continuing work on the state’s high‑speed rail project between the Bay Area and Los Angeles, even though many doubt it will ever be completed.

Support is strongest among Democrats, with 79 % backing the project, compared to 55% of independents and 38% of Republicans.

Yet only 27% of Democrats and 23% of Republicans believe the rail line will actually be finished, underscoring widespread skepticism across party lines.

The project has faced numerous obstacles, including construction delays, soaring costs, and a recent $4 billion federal funding cut. Republican leaders, including President Trump, have labeled the effort a failure. In response, Gov. Gavin Newsom and Democratic lawmaker, supported by labor unions, have proposed dedicating $1 billion annually from California’s cap‑and‑trade program to keep the project alive.

Originally slated for completion by 2020, the initial Merced‑to‑Bakersfield segment is now expected to open in 2033, with no firm date set for full completion. Cost estimates have ballooned from an initial $33 billion to approximately $128 billion.

Despite persistent doubts and rising price tags, the poll suggests that support remains rooted in optimism — voters may not expect the rail to arrive, but many still want the dream to stay on track.

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