Kamala Harris Eyes California Governor Race in 2026, Ponders 2028 Presidential Bid

Dec 15, 2024, 07:23 PM

Vice President Kamala Harris is reportedly considering a run for California governor in 2026, as an alternative to another presidential campaign in 2028. This decision comes after her 2024 presidential bid, where she raised over $1.5 billion in a brief 107-day campaign, despite her loss to Donald Trump. Her advisers and confidants are split on whether she should pursue the governorship or prepare for another presidential run. Some believe that her experience as California's attorney general and U.S. senator, along with her significant fundraising capabilities, would make her a strong candidate for governor. However, others argue that running for governor could interfere with her potential presidential ambitions, as it would require her to announce a presidential campaign shortly after being sworn in as governor. Several potential candidates for the governorship have indicated they would step aside if Harris decides to run. Harris has kept a low profile since her electoral defeat, focusing on future-focused leadership and has not ruled out conversations about a gubernatorial bid. Advisers believe she must decide by the summer of 2025 if she plans to run for governor.