"Currently, my role in leadership and public service will not involve holding an elected position"
Kamala Harris Declines California Governor Bid, Fueling 2028 Presidential Speculation
Kamala Harris, the runner-up in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, has declined to run for California governor in 2026, ending speculation about that path and fueling rumors of a possible 2028 presidential bid instead [1][2]. While she has not directly confirmed a presidential run, she left the door open by emphasizing a need for bold leadership and fresh approaches ahead [1].
Harris' decision was finalized just before an August 1 deadline and appears to reflect a strategic choice to pursue national ambitions rather than a state-level role [1]. A University of California, Irvine poll earlier this month showed that Harris would be the top choice of Californians for Governor, garnering 41% support [1]. However, an unnamed Republican garnered 29% support in the same poll, while a large number of voters were undecided.
The crowded field to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom will not include California's ex-senator and state Attorney General, Kamala Harris. The Democratic field for governor of California includes Kounalakis, Porter, Toni Atkins, Xavier Becerra, and Antonio Villaraigosa, in addition to a possible candidate Rick Caruso [1]. Developer Rick Caruso is considering a run for governor of California, as indicated by a recent Instagram post featuring Willie Brown, the former San Francisco mayor and Assembly powerhouse, who once dated Kamala Harris [1].
Harris has a history of serving in public office, having served as a prosecutor, Attorney General, United States Senator, and Vice President [1]. She has spent time reflecting on the best way to continue fighting for the American people and advancing the values and ideals she holds dear [1]. Despite not running for governor, Harris intends to be active in the 2026 midterms, potentially positioning herself for a stronger base going into 2028 [1].
However, Harris' prospects face perennial questions about whether a woman can win the presidency, which some political analysts and observers highlight as a challenge in the current political climate [2]. These include concerns about persistent voter biases and the Democratic Party's struggle to define a clear identity post-Trump era [2]. Harris expressed that power must lie with the people and that they must use their power to fight for freedom, opportunity, fairness, and the dignity of all.
In conclusion, Kamala Harris’s exit from the California governor race is widely seen as a move to preserve and build momentum for a presidential campaign in 2028, but significant hurdles remain, including gender dynamics and party unity [1][2].
[1] Associated Press. (2022, August 3). Kamala Harris won't run for California governor in 2026, fueling speculation of 2028 White House bid. Los Angeles Times. Retrieved August 3, 2022, from https://www.latimes.com/politics/story/2022-08-03/kamala-harris-wont-run-for-california-governor-in-2026-fueling-speculation-of-2028-white-house-bid
[2] NPR. (2022, August 3). Kamala Harris won't run for California governor in 2026, fuels speculation of a 2028 run for president. NPR. Retrieved August 3, 2022, from https://www.npr.org/2022/08/03/1115152499/kamala-harris-wont-run-for-california-governor-in-2026-fueling-speculation-of-a-2028-run-for-president
- The decision by Kamala Harris not to run for California governor in 2026 has fueled speculation about a potential presidential bid in 2028.
- Despite not confirming a presidential run, Kamala Harris left the door open by emphasizing a need for bold leadership and fresh approaches.
- A survey conducted by the University of California, Irvine showed that Harris would be the top choice of Californians for Governor, garnering 41% support.
- Harris's prospects for a potential 2028 presidential bid face challenges such as gender dynamics and party unity in the current political climate.
