Policy Brief: California’s Political Geography 2026

Heading into November, several issues and concerns weigh heavily on voters' minds. From living costs and immigration to climate change and abortion, Californians will go to the ballot hoping to elect leaders who will represent their interests and improve their communities.

How do Californians' political views differ across state? Using PPIC Statewide Survey data and sophisticated modeling to estimate public opinion across 46 areas, we find that while partisan alignment increasingly shapes views on major issues, Californians broadly agree on several policy topics. At the same time, a persistent coastal-inland divide-and the distinct political and economic position of the Bay Area-continues to structure differences in attitudes and lived experiences across California.

Party and ideology

A strong coastal-inland divide defines California politics. California generally leans left, but coastal regions are far more Democratic and liberal. Inland areas anchor Republican support. For example, President Trump's approval has fallen below 40 percent statewide in every PPIC survey since he first took office in 2017. However, the north central region and the eastern central border show majority support of Trump among registered voters during his second term. At the other extreme, Trump's approval rating has fallen below 20 percent in much of the Bay Area and in central LA.