Kamala Harris Considers California Gubernatorial Run Amidst Presidential Aspirations

Smiling woman in black coat waves among people.

Vice President Kamala Harris contemplates a run for California Governor, sparking debate about her political future.

At a Glance

  • Harris is considering running for California Governor in 2026 after losing the 2024 presidential election
  • Her team is divided on whether a gubernatorial run would help or hinder future presidential aspirations
  • Polls show strong support for Harris in California, but her national popularity remains low
  • Harris would need to announce her candidacy by summer 2025 if she decides to run for governor
  • The decision could impact her potential 2028 presidential campaign

Harris Weighs Gubernatorial Bid Amid Political Crossroads

Following her loss to Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential race, Vice President Kamala Harris finds herself at a political crossroads. Reports suggest she is seriously considering a run for California Governor in 2026, a move that could reshape her political trajectory. This potential pivot has ignited discussions about Harris’s future in politics and her long-term aspirations for higher office.

Harris’s team appears divided on the merits of a gubernatorial run. Some advisers view it as a strategic move to leverage her experience as California’s Attorney General and U.S. Senator. Others caution that it could complicate or derail her presidential ambitions for 2028. The decision is further complicated by the competitive landscape expected in the 2028 presidential race, with potential candidates like Josh Shapiro, Raphael Warnock, and Pete Buttigieg in the mix.

Gubernatorial Run: Opportunity or Obstacle?

Supporters of a gubernatorial bid argue that it could provide Harris with executive experience and a platform to address key California issues such as homelessness, housing shortages, and water crises. Polls indicate strong support for Harris in California, suggesting she could be a formidable candidate in the state. However, critics view the move as a potential step backward in her national political aspirations.

“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 told KTLA.

The timing of a gubernatorial campaign presents its own challenges. Harris would need to announce her candidacy by summer 2025, leaving little room for maneuvering if she decides to pursue the presidency in 2028. This timeline has led to disagreements among her advisers about the best course of action for her political future.

Presidential Ambitions and California’s Appeal

Despite her loss in 2024, Harris has not ruled out another presidential run. Some in her camp believe she could be a strong candidate in 2028, citing her fundraising abilities and potential appeal as a return to normalcy. However, her underperformance in the 2024 campaign compared to Biden’s results in California has raised concerns about her national electability.

“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.” another person close to Harris told KTLA.

The California governorship offers its own unique opportunities. Harris could make history as the first woman and person of color elected to the position. Additionally, major candidates for the role might step aside if she decides to run, potentially clearing her path to victory. However, a gubernatorial campaign would require substantial fundraising efforts and a compelling message to voters on state-specific issues.

Harris’s Political Future Remains Uncertain

As speculation continues, Harris has not made any public announcements regarding her intentions for 2026 or 2028. She has, however, indicated to supporters that she plans to remain active in politics. The coming months will likely see intense discussions within her team as they weigh the pros and cons of each potential path forward.

“I’m not going quietly into the night” Harris reportedly told supporters, according to Yahoo News.

Whether Harris chooses to pursue the California governorship or focus on another presidential bid, her decision will have significant implications for both state and national politics. As the political landscape continues to evolve, all eyes will be on the Vice President’s next move in her ongoing political journey.

Sources:

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

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