More Americans Turn Against Newsom

A growing majority of Californians are rejecting Gov. Gavin Newsom’s plan to ban the sale of new gas-powered vehicles by 2035, according to a newly released statewide poll. Rising electricity costs, affordability concerns, and opposition to government mandates appear to be driving the backlash—even among many Democrats.

A statewide survey by the Public Policy Institute of California, conducted from June 29 through July 6, found that nearly 66% of California adults and likely voters oppose Gov. Gavin Newsom’s executive order to end the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035.

The findings represent a significant setback for one of Newsom’s signature climate initiatives and suggest public opinion is moving sharply against California’s electric vehicle mandate.

Support for Gavin Newsom’s Gas Car Ban Continues to Decline

Newsom signed the executive order in 2020 as part of California’s broader effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition the state toward electric vehicles.

At the time, the governor described the measure as one of California’s most important steps in combating climate change.

But six years later, voters appear far less enthusiastic.

The latest poll shows opposition has grown across virtually every political group—including Democrats, who have historically been more supportive of aggressive environmental policies.

In 2021, only 31% of Democrats opposed the 2035 gas car ban. Today, that number has climbed to roughly 50%.

Among independent voters, opposition increased from 56% to 69%, while overall support for keeping gas-powered vehicles available has risen by 17 percentage points since the institute first asked the question.

The results indicate that concerns about affordability are beginning to outweigh support for ambitious climate policies.

Affordability Is Becoming the Deciding Issue

According to PPIC survey director Mark Baldassare, Californians are increasingly worried about the financial realities of owning an electric vehicle.

Interest in purchasing EVs has fallen considerably over the past five years. While roughly half of Californians previously said they were seriously considering buying an electric vehicle, that number has now dropped to about one-third.

Baldassare suggested many residents simply are not ready to make the switch, especially as California continues moving toward policies that would eventually eliminate new gas-powered vehicle sales.

For many families already struggling with the state’s high cost of living, buying a new electric vehicle has become a much tougher financial decision.

High Electricity Prices Are Hurting Electric Vehicle Appeal

Another major factor behind the declining support is California’s soaring utility costs.

Federal tax credits that once helped reduce the price of electric vehicles have expired, eliminating one of the biggest incentives for buyers.

At the same time, electricity prices across California continue to rise.

According to the survey, six in ten Californians now say utility costs are a major problem where they live.

For many consumers, charging an electric vehicle is no longer viewed as the low-cost alternative it once appeared to be.

Unlike gasoline prices, which drivers can easily compare at stations, monthly electric bills are often less predictable, creating additional uncertainty for households already dealing with rising expenses.

Critics Say California’s Green Agenda Is Driving Up Costs

Critics argue California’s aggressive environmental policies are contributing to higher costs across the economy.

The state’s goal of achieving a carbon-free electric grid by 2045 requires major investments in new infrastructure, with many of those costs ultimately passed on to consumers through higher utility bills.

Wayne Winegarden, an economics fellow at the Pacific Research Institute, said the poll reflects growing frustration over California’s affordability crisis.

He argued that environmental regulations have helped increase energy prices, housing costs, and the price of many everyday goods.

As families continue feeling pressure from inflation and higher monthly bills, voters appear to be placing greater importance on affordability than government mandates.

Newsom Pushes Ahead With New Electric Vehicle Rebates

Despite the growing opposition, Newsom is moving forward with new incentives aimed at increasing electric vehicle ownership.

The governor recently signed legislation creating a $270 million rebate program for qualifying electric vehicles.

Under the new program:

• Buyers of qualifying new electric vehicles priced at $50,000 or less can receive rebates of up to $3,500.
• Buyers of qualifying used electric vehicles priced at $25,000 or less can receive rebates of up to $1,750.

The state program is designed to replace federal electric vehicle tax incentives that have expired.

Newsom defended the new rebates, arguing California intends to continue investing in electric vehicles rather than allowing other countries to dominate the industry.

California Still Leads the Nation in EV Sales

California remains the nation’s largest market for electric vehicles.

According to the California Energy Commission, more than 1.25 million electric vehicles are currently registered statewide, and EVs accounted for roughly one in five new vehicle sales last year.

Even so, the latest polling suggests many Californians are becoming increasingly skeptical of requiring consumers to abandon gas-powered vehicles on a government timetable.

Growing Backlash Could Pressure State Leaders

The poll suggests California voters are sending a clear message to state leaders.

While many residents continue supporting cleaner technology and expanded transportation options, a growing majority appear unwilling to accept a government mandate that removes their ability to choose what kind of vehicle they purchase.

With affordability concerns mounting, electricity prices remaining high, and opposition rising across party lines, Newsom’s 2035 gas car ban is likely to remain one of California’s most closely watched political battles in the years ahead.