Vice President Kamala Harris contemplates a potential run for California Governor, sparking debate among her advisers and supporters 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 to pursue the governorship or focus on a 2028 presidential bid
- Running for governor could complicate a future presidential run due to timing and optics
- Polls show strong support for Harris in California, making the gubernatorial race a potentially safer option
- Harris has indicated she plans to remain active in politics, stating, “I’m not going quietly into the night”
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. With the 2026 California gubernatorial race on the horizon, Harris is weighing her options carefully. The decision to run for governor or maintain focus on a potential 2028 presidential bid has created a rift among her advisers and supporters.
Harris’s team is grappling with the complexities of her political future. Some view the gubernatorial race as a strategic move to bolster her executive experience, while others see it as a potential distraction from her presidential ambitions. The timing of the races adds another layer of complexity, as running for governor in 2026 could impede a 2028 presidential campaign.
Why is Kamala Harris' team reportedly split on a potential run for California governor? https://t.co/5PKPCwYLov
— KTLA (@KTLA) December 16, 2024
The Case for California Governor
Proponents of a gubernatorial run argue that Harris has a strong chance of success in California. Having been elected statewide three times as Attorney General and U.S. Senator, Harris enjoys significant name recognition and support in the state. Recent polls indicate that she would be a formidable candidate in the gubernatorial race.
“Vice President Kamala Harris has not publicly said if she plans to run for California governor in 2026.” – Kamala Harris
If elected, Harris would make history as the first woman and person of color to serve as California’s governor. This achievement could potentially strengthen her national profile and provide valuable executive experience. Additionally, some advisers believe that major candidates for the governorship might step aside if Harris enters the race, potentially clearing her path to victory.
Will Kamala Harris run for California governor in 2026? The question is already swirling https://t.co/dTd3HaII1L
— Daily Press (@Daily_Press) December 12, 2024
Presidential Aspirations and Challenges
Despite the potential benefits of a gubernatorial run, some of Harris’s close advisers argue that it could hinder her presidential ambitions. The 2028 presidential race is expected to be highly competitive, with potential candidates like Josh Shapiro, Raphael Warnock, Jon Ossoff, Pete Buttigieg, and Gavin Newsom in the mix.
“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
Critics argue that pursuing the governorship could be seen as a “consolation prize” and might diminish Harris’s stature on the national stage. Furthermore, the demands of running a large state like California could potentially divert resources and attention from building a national campaign infrastructure for 2028.
The Road Ahead
As Harris contemplates her next move, she has made it clear that she intends to remain a prominent figure in American politics. Her recent statement, “I’m not going quietly into the night,” underscores her determination to continue shaping her political legacy.
Ultimately, Harris’s decision will likely hinge on her assessment of the political landscape and her chances of securing the Democratic presidential nomination in 2028. With advisers suggesting she would need to announce a gubernatorial run by summer 2025, Harris has limited time to weigh her options and chart her course for the future.
As the political world watches closely, Harris’s choice between the California governorship and a potential presidential run will undoubtedly have significant implications for both state and national politics in the years to come.
Sources:
- Column: Kamala Harris should run for governor — but only if she wants to solve California’s problems
- Why is Kamala Harris’ team reportedly split on a potential run for California governor?
- Kamala Harris for CA Governor? Here’s What Her Close Aides Think
