In the first post-primary statewide poll conducted by the nonpartisan Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC), Democratic congressman Adam Schiff holds a comfortable lead over Republican Steve Garvey in the Senate race.
The poll indicates that Schiff is the choice of 61% of likely voters, while Garvey trails with 37%. They are competing for the Senate seat currently held by Democrat Laphonza Butler, who was appointed after the passing of Senator Dianne Feinstein.
Adam Schiff (Credits: The Hill)
Schiff’s lead is bolstered by strong support from independents, with 58% favoring him compared to 38% for Garvey. Party loyalty also plays a role, as the majority of Democrats (92%) back Schiff, while most Republicans (88%) support Garvey.
However, given the Democratic advantage in California and the GOP’s lack of success in statewide races since 2006, Schiff has a structural advantage.
Additionally, Schiff holds a remarkable financial advantage over Garvey. Despite both candidates raising similar amounts of money between mid-February and late March, Schiff has $4.8 million on hand, while Garvey has $1.6 million.
Steve Garvey (Credits: CNN)
In addition to the Senate race, the PPIC survey also looked at the presidential race in California. It found that President Joe Biden maintains a comfortable lead over former President Donald Trump, with Biden receiving 54% support compared to Trump’s 31%. However, 11% of likely voters expressed a preference for someone else to be president.
The survey also highlighted an “enthusiasm gap” among likely voters. About four in 10 respondents stated that they are not enthusiastic about voting for president in November, with independents expressing the highest level of disinterest at 57%.
This enthusiasm gap could impact turnout and outcomes in down-ticket races, including competitive House races that will influence control of Congress.
