Kamala Harris’s Potential Run for California Governor: Implications for Her Political Future

A woman speaking with an American flag in background.

Vice President Kamala Harris contemplates a run for California Governor, sparking debate about her political future after a 2024 presidential loss to Donald Trump.

At a Glance

  • Harris is considering running for California Governor in 2026 after losing the 2024 presidential election
  • Her team is divided on whether to pursue the governorship or focus on a potential 2028 presidential bid
  • Running for governor could hinder a future presidential run due to timing and optics
  • Harris has strong support in California but faces challenges in crafting a compelling voter message
  • She has not publicly announced plans to run for California governor

Harris’s Political Crossroads

Following her defeat in the 2024 presidential election, Vice President Kamala Harris finds herself at a critical juncture in her political career. The prospect of running for California Governor in 2026 has emerged as a potential path forward, but it comes with significant implications for her long-term political aspirations. Harris’s team is grappling with the decision, weighing the benefits of a gubernatorial run against the potential impact on a future presidential bid.

The debate within Harris’s inner circle reflects the complexity of her situation. Some advisers view the governorship as a safe option, given her strong support in California and her previous electoral successes in the state. However, others caution that pursuing the governor’s office could be perceived as a step down and potentially hinder her chances in the 2028 presidential race.

California Governor: Opportunity or Setback?

Running for California Governor presents both opportunities and challenges for Harris. As the first woman and person of color to potentially be elected to the position, she could make history once again. The role would allow her to address key issues facing the state, including homelessness, housing shortages, and water management. However, mounting a successful campaign would require significant fundraising efforts and a compelling message to voters.

“Running for governor would be a step down, and it would interfere with her ability to run for president again” one person close to Harris said to CNN

This sentiment, expressed by a person close to Harris, encapsulates the dilemma she faces. While the governorship could provide a platform to showcase her leadership abilities, it may also be viewed as a consolation prize following her presidential defeat. The timing of a gubernatorial run could conflict with preparations for another presidential campaign, potentially forcing Harris to choose between the two paths.

The 2028 Presidential Landscape

The 2028 presidential race looms large in Harris’s decision-making process. The field is expected to be competitive, with potential candidates like Josh Shapiro, Raphael Warnock, Jon Ossoff, Pete Buttigieg, and Gavin Newsom. Harris’s team believes she could be a strong contender due to her fundraising capabilities and potential appeal as a return to normalcy. However, her decisive loss to Donald Trump in 2024 raises questions about her viability as a presidential candidate.

“I don’t know if she’s going to run for president again, but a shot at running for president again is worth giving up running for governor.” one person close to Harris said.

This perspective, shared by another person close to Harris, highlights the high stakes involved in her decision. Choosing to run for governor could potentially close the door on a 2028 presidential bid, given the practical challenges of running for both offices. Harris would need to announce a gubernatorial campaign by summer 2025, leaving little time to pivot to a presidential run if she were to win the governorship.

Harris’s Political Future

Despite the uncertainty surrounding her next move, Harris has made it clear that she intends to remain active in politics. She has reportedly told supporters, “I’m not going quietly into the night,” signaling her determination to continue her political career in some capacity. Whether that means pursuing the California governorship or focusing on another presidential run remains to be seen.

As Harris and her team deliberate on her political future, the implications of their decision will ripple through both California and national politics. The choice between running for governor and preserving the option for another presidential bid will shape not only Harris’s career but also the landscape of Democratic leadership in the years to come.

Sources:

  1. Why is Kamala Harris’ team reportedly split on a potential run for California governor?
  2. Column: Kamala Harris should run for governor — but only if she wants to solve California’s problems
  3. Kamala Harris Aides Divided on Next Move
  4. Kamala Harris for CA Governor? Here’s What Her Close Aides Think