A recent poll conducted by the UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies (IGS) between June 2–6, 2025, reveals significant unease among California’s registered voters—including Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)—about the state of American democracy and the trustworthiness of state leadership.
With 6,474 respondents, the poll reflects growing dissatisfaction with Governor Gavin Newsom, the California Legislature, and other influential sectors. For NRIs, this unease carries deeper implications, as they straddle both local and global political landscapes.
Key Findings from the UC Berkeley IGS Poll
Fears for American Democracy
- 90% of Californians, including many NRIs, believe American democracy is either:
- “Under attack” (64%)
- Or “Being tested” (26%)
- Only 1 in 10 voters believe democracy is currently secure.
- Among older NRI voters (65+), 70% see democracy as under threat—higher than the 60% of younger NRIs (18–29).
“Not many years ago, it is hard to imagine that a majority of voters would have seen U.S. democracy as under severe threat.” — Eric Schickler, UC Berkeley IGS
Widespread Distrust in State Leadership
Governor Gavin Newsom
- A majority of NRI voters express limited trust in Newsom’s leadership.
- Concerns include his approach to housing, economic policy, and issues impacting immigrant communities.
California Legislature
- Over 50% of NRIs believe the Legislature prioritizes special interests over public welfare.
- Many feel disconnected from Sacramento’s policymaking process.
Other Influential Sectors
- Low trust also extends to political, business, and tech leaders—despite many NRIs working in these sectors.
- Many feel their own community’s needs are overlooked in these spaces.
Special Interests and Public Distrust
- 57% of voters trust the courts, but many believe special interest money influences legislative decisions.
- NRIs often draw parallels between this and corruption in Indian politics, which amplifies their frustration.
Partisan Divide within the NRI Community
- Democrats (Majority of NRIs): 89% believe democracy is under threat.
- Republicans: 57% distrust California’s election system; many raise concerns about voter integrity.
- Independents: 80% view democracy as threatened; express frustration over gridlock and single-party dominance.
Recent Newsom-backed reforms to the California Environmental Quality Act (which some view as weakening progressive values) have furthered concern among NRIs regarding alignment with sustainability and community welfare.
Why Are NRIs Unhappy?
1. Perceived Erosion of Democracy
- Many NRIs have witnessed political instability in India or abroad.
- Concerns are amplified by:
- U.S. airstrikes on Iran
- Shootings of two Minnesota lawmakers
- Global unrest and domestic violence
2. Special Interest Influence
- Many NRIs feel sidelined by Sacramento’s focus on corporate donors.
- Key issues being overlooked include:
- Immigration policy
- Cultural representation
- Access to economic opportunity
3. Political Polarization
- NRIs face complex identity challenges.
- Republican-aligned NRIs fear election fraud.
- Democratic and Independent NRIs are frustrated by the lack of unity and stagnant policymaking.
4. Gubernatorial Uncertainty
- 40% of all voters remain undecided about the 2026 gubernatorial race.
- Kamala Harris leads early opinion polls with only 24% support—despite no official candidacy.
- This has created unease among NRIs seeking stable leadership.
5. Economic and Social Pressures
- Housing affordability, high cost of living, and changing environmental policies are top concerns—especially in dense NRI communities like the Bay Area.
Implications for California’s NRI Community
1. Advocacy for Greater Representation
- NRIs may call for stronger presence in Sacramento around:
- Immigration
- Cultural equity
- Education policy
2. Support for Election Reforms
- 71% of Californians, including many NRIs, support proof of citizenship for first-time voters.
- Especially popular among NRI Republicans.
3. Reducing Special Interests
- NRIs echo a desire for cleaner governance, comparing Sacramento to political systems in India.
4. Identity and Autonomy
- The Independent California Institute found:
- 71% support greater state autonomy
- But 54% oppose full secession
- Some NRIs welcome local control over education and cultural values.
Conclusion
The UC Berkeley IGS poll underscores a pivotal moment in California’s political narrative, especially for the NRI community:
- 90% are worried about the future of democracy.
- A majority distrust Governor Newsom and the state Legislature.
- Concerns span special interests, polarization, housing, and governance.
As California enters a critical political phase, NRIs are poised to shape its direction by advocating for policies rooted in transparency, community welfare, and equitable representation.
