Kamala Harris declines potential candidacy for California's governorship
After announcing she will not run for governor of California in 2026, Vice President Kamala Harris has shared her plans to take a step back from elected office "for now" and focus on listening to the American people, helping elect Democrats across the nation, and revealing more details about her future plans in the coming months [1][2][4].
Harris's decision not to run for governor marks the first time in decades that she isn't serving in or running for political office. Before joining President Joe Biden in the White House, she served as attorney general of California and senator from the state [6].
While Harris has not explicitly announced her next move, her decision to pass on the governorship leaves open the possibility of a 2028 presidential run, a prospect many observers consider likely given her previous campaigns in 2020 and 2024 [1][2][5].
Sean Clegg, a longtime advisor to Harris, confirmed that she considered a run for governor of California but ultimately decided against it [3]. Harris emphasized the need for new methods and fresh thinking in politics and government, committed to traditional values but not bound by old playbooks [1][4].
Reports suggest that Harris has considered other options, such as writing a memoir, starting a nonprofit focusing on young voters and democracy, or launching a political action committee to support Democrats [2].
Republicans, including the Republican Governors Association, celebrated Harris's decision not to run for governor, with Kollin Crompton stating that Harris's political career is over. However, Democrats, such as Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Calif., expressed excitement at Harris's promise of helping get Democrats elected across the country [7].
Current California Gov. Gavin Newsom can't seek a third term, which could potentially lead to competition between Harris and Newsom if Harris's pause in service is in preparation for a 2028 presidential campaign [5].
Sources: [1] Salon.com - Kamala Harris rules out run for California governor [2] CNN - Kamala Harris is exploring options beyond politics [3] Politico - Harris advisor confirms she's not running for governor [4] The Washington Post - Kamala Harris: 'For now, my leadership and public service will not be in elected office' [5] NBC News - Kamala Harris's pause from politics raises questions about her future plans [6] The New York Times - Kamala Harris's political career timeline [7] LA Times - Kamala Harris's decision not to run for governor sparks mixed reactions among Democrats and Republicans
Read also:
- Court petitions to reverse established decision on same-sex marriage legalization
- Proposed Standardization of Food Labeling Laws Among Member States by the Commission
- Commemoration of 200 Days of American Resurgence Unveiled
- Minister Bärbel Bas expresses doubts about her tenure as a minister following a recent interview during the summer.
