Poli Alert Politics & Civics
Related Articles
Former Vice President Kamala Harris announced Wednesday that she will not run for governor of California, ending months of speculation about her political future following her defeat to Donald Trump in last year’s presidential election.
In a statement released by her office, Harris said she gave “serious thought” to entering the 2026 gubernatorial race but ultimately decided against it.
“I love this state, its people, and its promise. It is my home,” Harris said. “But after deep reflection, I’ve decided that I will not run for Governor in this election. For now, my leadership — and public service — will not be in elected office.”
Harris added that she plans to continue engaging with voters across the country and to support Democrats in upcoming races. She also hinted at future announcements, though she did not offer specifics.
Background: Harris Steps Away — For Now
Harris, 59, has held prominent statewide positions in California, including two terms as state attorney general and four years in the U.S. Senate. She resigned from the Senate in 2021 to become vice president under President Joe Biden, later becoming the Democratic presidential nominee in 2024 after Biden exited the race. She lost the general election to former President Donald Trump.
Despite calls from supporters to run for governor in 2026, Harris is reportedly prioritizing her national profile and considering options beyond elected office in the short term.
“This does keep the door open for 2028,” said one person close to Harris, who requested anonymity to speak freely. “It was a really tough decision; she really grappled with it. She wants to have the biggest impact that she could possibly have.”
Sources close to Harris said she met with a small group of longtime advisers in Los Angeles last month before reaching her decision. One adviser said the former vice president considered several options, including a gubernatorial run, nonprofit leadership, and launching a political action committee.
Strategic Calculations: Eye on 2028
While running for governor wouldn’t have disqualified Harris from making another presidential bid, her team acknowledged it would have significantly limited her bandwidth and tied her to the day-to-day demands of a high-profile state office.
“She still wants to be part of the national conversation and talk about Donald Trump,” said a third person close to Harris. “Being in debates and forums in California is not going to allow her to do that.”
Harris is expected to campaign actively for Democrats in the 2026 midterm elections and may soon announce initiatives tied to national political advocacy.
“She’s going to have other announcements, and they’re not about 2028,” the person added.
California Race: A Crowded Democratic Field
Harris’ decision not to enter the California governor’s race leaves an already crowded Democratic primary field intact. With Gov. Gavin Newsom term-limited, several high-profile Democrats have declared their candidacies, including:
-
Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis
-
Former HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra
-
Former Rep. Katie Porter
-
Former state Senate President Toni Atkins
-
Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa
California, a heavily Democratic state that Harris carried by 20 points in the 2024 presidential race, is unlikely to shift away from the party. Still, the governor’s race is expected to be closely watched, with significant fundraising and endorsements already underway.
Harris and Newsom, both alumni of San Francisco’s political scene, have long been viewed as rising stars in Democratic politics. A Harris candidacy would have upended the race, consolidating donor support and media attention.
What’s Next for Harris?
Harris’ next move is likely to involve nonprofit work and potentially launching a political action committee focused on electing Democrats and pushing back against Trump-era policies.
While her long-term political future remains unclear, those close to her say she’s not retreating from public life.
“She wants to listen, to travel, to reconnect — and then decide what’s next,” said one adviser. “She’s not done.”
