Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility
Most Californians Expect Economic Downturn as Financial Stress and Government Distrust Rise
News
By News
Published 17 seconds ago on
December 4, 2025

A new PPIC survey finds seven in ten Californians expect worsening economic conditions, with significant financial strain, rising distrust in government, and broad support for policies aimed at improving economic well-being. (GV Wire Composite)

Share

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Seven in ten Californians expect bad economic times in the coming year, according to a new November survey from the Public Policy Institute of California. PPIC researcher Dean Bonner said pessimism has risen sharply since last December, when 56% anticipated a downturn.

Despite most residents describing their personal finances as comfortable or adequate, about one in five say they feel stressed or are falling behind. Three in ten respondents reported cutting back on food to save money, while more than two in ten said they faced reduced hours or pay, delayed medical care, or missed a monthly bill. A quarter worry daily about housing costs and debt.

The survey also found growing workplace use of artificial intelligence, with 14% of employed adults using AI daily. Half believe the technology will reduce jobs in their industry.

Economic concerns are paired with low trust in government, although large majorities support policies such as a public health option, more job training funds, expanded child care, and a larger Earned Income Tax Credit.

Read more at PPIC.

RELATED TOPICS:

Search

Help continue the work that gets you the news that matters most.

Send this to a friend