Becerra's lead over Hilton narrows to 5.6 points in post-debate poll

A poll conducted on Oct. 1-2 by David Wolfson for Steve Hilton’s campaign surveyed 1,020 Californians after the candidates’ first debate. It recorded Xavier Becerra with 45.7% support and Hilton with 40.1%, narrowing Becerra’s lead to 5.6 points. Compared with a prior poll showing a 52-37 split, Becerra’s backing fell by 6.3 points and Hilton’s rose by 3.1 points, creating a 9.4-point swing in the margin.

Still, 14.1% of voters are undecided, keeping the race competitive. The survey also revealed that 58.8% of respondents believe California is heading in the wrong direction, versus 28.1% who think it is moving correctly. When pressed to choose, undecided voters leaned heavily toward Becerra (72.5%). Favorability ratings were mixed, with Becerra at 44.1% favorable and Hilton at 35.5% favorable.