California poll shows progressives outpace mainstream Democrats, younger voters lean left

An online poll conducted by UC Berkeley’s Institute of Governmental Studies and co-sponsored by The Times surveyed 4,207 California registered voters. Among all respondents, a candidate described as progressive received the highest favorability, edging out both mainstream Democrats and Republicans. Within the Democratic electorate, 60% said they would support a progressive, 58% a democratic socialist, and 48% a mainstream Democrat, with older voters leaning toward the latter.

Younger voters under 40 expressed greater openness to left-wing labels, reflecting a generational divide that mirrors internal party debates ahead of the November midterms. Republicans also showed age-based differences, with older voters more inclined toward a MAGA label. Analysts note the shift in terminology may influence candidate positioning but its impact on actual policy outcomes remains uncertain.