Sacramento –
A recent poll from the US Berkeley Government Institute reveals that a significant portion of California voters believe American democracy is facing serious threats. Conducted for nonprofits Evelyn and the Walter Haas Jr. Fund, the survey highlights a widespread concern that spans party lines and demographic categories, whether it’s age, income, education, or race.
Eric Sickler, co-director of the Berkeley Institute, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “I think it’s pretty dangerous right now. The concerns are justified.” He pointed out that the state of democracy is concerning when a president takes unilateral steps to limit spending.
The findings indicated that 64% of California voters feel democracy is under attack, while 26% believe it is being tested but not outright attacked. Notably, the poll did not delve into whether voters felt democratic practices themselves were at risk.
For Democrats, the anxiety is particularly high. About 81% view democracy as under attack, while 16% feel it’s being tested. Among those registered with no party preference or other affiliations, 61% share the belief that democracy is being assaulted, with 32% saying it’s merely under test.
In contrast, Republicans expressed somewhat more optimism. Nearly a quarter feel that democracy is not at risk, but 38% indicate a sense of attack, while 39% suggest it’s being tested without outright assault.
The level of concern among Californians may not be surprising given the turmoil experienced since President Trump took office. However, the level of unease among Republicans indicates a broader worry about the stability of a system typically seen as a symbol of freedom.
Emily Ekins, polling director at the Libertarian Cato Institute, noted a shift in sentiment within American politics. “A few years ago, Republicans felt democracy was at risk, and now Democrats share that feeling. I think this is pretty worrying,” she explained. This suggests that many people believe they could lose their rights and freedoms, leading to a perception that existing rules might no longer apply to them.
Sickler pointed to Trump’s unfounded claims about the 2020 election being stolen as a factor that has amplified this perception among Republicans, exacerbated by ongoing allegations against federal institutions like the FBI. These narratives have been popularized through conservative media, reinforcing fears among Trump’s supporters and beyond.
The recent mobilization of U.S. Marines and California State Guards during federal immigration actions has also stirred concerns, even among those Republicans who typically support Trump.
Another source of worry stems from how media companies have dealt with lawsuits pertaining to Trump, such as the $16 million settlement by Paramount Global over a contentious interview involving then-President Kamala Harris. Sickler reacted, “That’s not how democracy works,” arguing that voter apprehensions are deeply rooted in reality and have developed over many years.
The survey also highlighted that 75% of California voters feel special interests wield excessive influence in state politics. A majority voiced skepticism about the ability of Governor Gavin Newsom and the state legislature to act in the public’s best interests. While 42% expressed a strong belief in the press, 53% were less confident. The public trust in Congress mirrored this sentiment.
Interestingly, the judicial system received a relatively favorable rating, with 57% of voters trusting it to serve the public adequately. Meanwhile, a significant 58% deemed technology companies and their leaders as entirely untrustworthy.
Russia Chavis Cardenas, deputy director of Common Causes in California, highlighted the overwhelming influence of special interests, urging broader representation and engagement across diverse communities. “It’s concerning, but it’s also a wake-up call,” she remarked, emphasizing the awareness of tech giants’ power over elected officials.
The poll captured responses from 6,474 registered voters across California between June 2 and 6.
