Statewide Survey PPIC Statewide Survey: Californians and Their Government By Mark Baldassare, Dean Bonner, Lauren Mora, Deja Thomas May 27, 2026 Key findings of the survey include: Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton lead in the top-two gubernatorial primary. A majority of likely voters support a one-time tax on billionaires, while they are split on setting new voter ID requirements. Majorities say that higher gas prices have affected their financial situation and that military actions in Iran will hurt their finances.
Report Examining Trends in California’s Birth Rates By Hans Johnson, Julien Lafortune, Eric McGhee May 21, 2026 As in other states, California’s birth rates have fallen to their lowest levels on record, largely driven by fewer births among younger women. The implications of this change are far-reaching: a smaller population may hasten K–12 enrollment declines and strain the state’s safety net while easing pressure on housing and infrastructure demands.
Statewide Survey PPIC Statewide Survey: Californians and Education By Mark Baldassare, Dean Bonner, Lauren Mora, Deja Thomas Apr 15, 2026 Key findings of the survey include: Ahead of the governor’s primary, overwhelming majorities say that candidates’ positions on public education are important. Nearly two-thirds of likely voters would vote yes to make taxes permanent on high incomes to fund education and health care. About half of adults think schools are doing at least a good job preparing students for jobs.
Fact Sheet California’s Prison Population By Luciana Susanto, Heather Harris Apr 13, 2026 After falling sharply during the pandemic, California’s prison population now stands at its lowest point in more than 30 years. Meanwhile, the average annual cost of imprisoning a person has risen 40% since 2019.
event A Conversation with California’s Higher Education Leaders Apr 9, 2026 Higher education is a primary pathway to opportunity for California residents and a key driver of economic health for the state. How can California’s higher education system prepare a broad range of students to meet the challenges of the future? Join PPIC president and CEO Tani Cantil-Sakauye for a wide-ranging conversation with California's higher education leaders.
event Taking the Pulse of California’s Economy Mar 19, 2026 California is a global economic powerhouse, but the state faces a multitude of challenges—from uncertainty around federal policies to technological transformation to cost-of-living realities. How can California leaders promote an economy that benefits all residents? Join PPIC for a discussion on the health of our state's economy.
blog post State Policymakers Discuss Priorities, Challenges for 2026 By Vicki Hsieh Jan 28, 2026 Affordability is a top issue for policymakers from both parties, along with AI and immigration. Heath Flora, Republican leader of the California State Assembly, and Democratic Assemblymember José Luis Solache, Jr., discuss their concerns with PPIC president and CEO Tani Cantil-Sakauye.
