Half of Californians in new poll want Newsom recalled

About half of likely California voters want Gov. Gavin NewsomGavin NewsomJane Fonda reflects on California recall election: Report New poll shows deadlock in California recall election DC Bowser’s maskless mayor won’t run away with media attack MORE (D) recalled next month, according to a poll released Wednesday.

The August 2-4 poll by Survey USA for the San Diego Union Tribune found that 51% of those polled said they would vote for Newsom’s impeachment if the recall election was held today. Forty percent said they wanted the governor to stay in office.

The results of the survey mark a sharp reversal from a Survey USA / San Diego Union Tribune conducted in May which found that only 36% of voters wanted Newsom removed from office, with 47% opposed to the recall.

The poll numbers paint an alarming picture for Newsom, who will face a referendum on September 14 that will determine whether he will be allowed to complete his first term.

Newsom’s main concern is the lack of enthusiasm among California voters. Polls have repeatedly shown Republicans to be more forceful ahead of the recall vote, putting Newsom at risk despite the state’s strong Democratic majority.

Yet the new Survey USA / San Diego Union Tribune has found that a Republican may not be the first choice to replace Newsom if he is ultimately removed from office.

Kevin Paffrath, a YouTube personality and the most prominent Democrat seeking to replace Newsom, leads the challengers field with 27% support. He is followed by Conservative radio host Larry Elder at 23%.

Only one other candidate, Republican businessman John Cox, garnered double-digit support, registering 10% in the poll.

Former mayor of San Diego Kevin faulconerKevin Faulconer Polls show California recall gaining momentum Michigan GOP Executive Director resigns under pressure from Trump allies Six things to watch as California heads to recall election MORE (R), garnered 5% support, while former Rep Doug Ose (R-Calif.) And reality TV star Caitlyn Jenner each recorded 4%.

The poll questioned 1,100 California adults, including 613 likely voters. Survey USA said it did not report a traditional margin of error, but instead assigned a “credibility interval” to each question. In the case of the recall question, the credibility interval was plus or minus 5 percentage points.