Former U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris has announced that she will not run for governor of California in 2026, ending months of speculation about her political future in the state. The Democratic leader made the announcement through a statement released on Wednesday, expressing her deep love for California but clarifying that her next chapter will not involve seeking elected office at least for now.
“I have given serious thought to asking the people of California for the privilege to serve as their Governor. I love this state, its people, and its promise. It is my home,” Harris said. “But after deep reflection, I’ve decided that I will not run for Governor in this election.”
The decision comes as California Governor Gavin Newsom, a fellow Democrat, prepares to leave office in 2026 due to term limits after serving since 2019. With Newsom’s departure on the horizon, political observers had viewed Harris as a strong contender for the governorship. Her national profile, combined with deep California roots including her tenure as the state’s attorney general and U.S. senator positioned her as a high-profile option.
However, Harris hinted at broader ambitions, subtly leaving the door open for a potential run for the presidency in 2028. “For now, my leadership and public service will not be in elected office,” she said. “I look forward to getting back out and listening to the American people, helping elect Democrats across the nation who will fight fearlessly, and sharing more details in the months ahead about my own plans.”
Harris has kept a relatively low public profile since her 2024 presidential election defeat to Republican Donald Trump. Her recent statements mark a reentry into the political conversation, with many interpreting her words as groundwork for a renewed national campaign.
With Harris stepping aside, the race for California governor now focuses on other Democratic heavyweights. Announced candidates include Xavier Becerra, former Health and Human Services Secretary under President Joe Biden, and former U.S. Representative Katie Porter.
The 2026 California gubernatorial race promises to be a pivotal contest, shaping not only the state’s leadership but potentially influencing the national Democratic landscape ahead of 2028.
