Harris's Decision Not to Run in 2026 Leaves Door Open for Potential Second Presidential Campaign in 2028
Kamala Harris, the former Vice President of the United States, has ruled out running for governor of California in 2026 but has left open the possibility of running for president again in 2028 [1][2][3]. After announcing she will not seek elected office in the near term, Harris stated her intention to remain active in politics by supporting Democrats nationwide and indicated she would share more about her future plans in the coming months.
Following her loss to Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election and completing her vice-presidential term, Harris returned to California. Observers note that by not running for governor of California—one of the nation's most populous states and a significant political platform—she avoids a detour that would complicate any presidential ambitions [1][3].
Harris has spent 2025 mostly out of the public eye, weighing options including a potential 2028 presidential campaign, and engaging with confidants on her next steps. She has also reportedly been preparing a memoir and considering launching nonprofit or political initiatives to support young voters and democracy [2].
If Harris runs for president in 2028, she would be the most recognizable Democrat in a large field of contenders [1]. Other potential 2028 Democratic presidential contenders have already been making early moves, including Govs. Gavin Newsom of California, JB Pritzker of Illinois, Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, Wes Moore of Maryland, Andy Beshear of Kentucky, Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey, and former Biden Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg [1].
However, Harris would have to deal with her unwavering support for Biden, as his physical and mental abilities were a concern for Americans during the 2024 campaign. Moreover, Harris could potentially face political baggage from the 2024 campaign, as the Democrats lost the White House, Senate majority, and failed to win back control of the House [1].
Republican Rep. James Comer, as House Oversight chair, is investigating the former president's use of the autopen and mental fitness while in office, and has suggested the "odds of Kamala Harris getting a subpoena are very high" [1].
In a statement, Harris said, "For now, my leadership - and public service - will not be in elected office." She has pledged to stay involved in politics and help elect Democrats across the nation [1]. With a gubernatorial run off the table, the concern about it affecting a 2028 White House run no longer exists [1].
Harris would start her 2028 presidential campaign with a broad fundraising network, given her successful fundraising efforts during her 2024 campaign [1]. Former Democratic National Committee chair Donna Brazile noted that former vice presidents often continue their public life, whether it's in academia, the public sector, public speaking, serving in advisory capacities for corporations or nonprofits, launching their own personal advocacy, writing a memoir, or returning to public office [1].
A Democratic strategist believes Harris would be a very serious candidate in the 2028 primary if she runs [1]. On Thursday, Harris announced her new book about her 2024 presidential campaign, titled "107 Days," further suggesting her continued interest in politics [1]. Brazile suggested that there are many roles Harris can play, whether it's as a private citizen or a public official, and this is just one of the many decisions she will make over the course of her lifetime [1].
In the world of politics, Kamala Harris is poised for a potential return to the presidential race in 2028, potentially becoming the most recognizable Democrat in a large field of contenders. Meanwhile, the media has been following her moves closely, including her writing a memoir about her 2024 campaign and the recent announcement of a book titled "107 Days".
