(The Center Square) — Christopher Newport University just released its findings from its annual State of the Commonwealth poll, revealing a fair amount of support for Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin, limited optimism about the direction of the commonwealth and enthusiasm for primarily several Democrat-led proposals before the 2024 state legislature.

About 50% of the 1,000 Virginia registered voters surveyed approved of the job Youngkin is doing, consistent with the poll’s results a year ago and not far from the 54% approval rating recorded in Virginia Commonwealth University’s most recent poll. 

More Virginians believe the commonwealth is headed in the right direction than not, with 43% saying it’s headed in the right direction, 37% saying it’s headed in the wrong direction and 11% saying it’s a little bit of both. 

While the number of those who believe the commonwealth is headed in the right direction certainly isn’t overwhelming, it’s much higher than the 20% who say the same for the country. 

The poll also asked respondents about a series of policy measures that have either been addressed in legislation or the governor’s budget proposal.

Democratic policies were most popular with respondents. Far and away, the policy that received the most support would require gun owners to put a lock on their guns if they live with a minor. Eighty-seven percent of those surveyed were in favor of the initiative. 

The second-most popular initiative was another gun law, which would bestow criminal penalties on gun owners whose guns were used by minors to commit a crime. Eighty-one percent approved.

However, the third-most endorsed proposal introduced by Youngkin in his “Unleashing Opportunity” budget would direct $448 million to childcare and early education programs, with 79% in support.

Otherwise, almost 70% of respondents favored more increases to the state minimum wage, and over 60% would like to see amendments to the state constitution protecting abortion access and restoring felons’ voting rights once their time is served. 

There was modest support for corporate and individual tax cuts, depending on economic circumstances, and 51% of respondents supported expanding the number of places Virginians can conceal carry.

Most respondents — 67% — would like Virginia’s car tax repealed.