LOS ANGELES — Kamala Harris, the former Vice President, has announced she will not be running for governor of California in the upcoming election, highlighting the possibility of a third presidential campaign in 2028.
In a statement released by her office, Harris expressed her deep reflection on the current moment in U.S. history and her ongoing dedication to the American people. “Over the past six months, I have spent time reflecting on this moment in our nation’s history and the best way for me to continue fighting for the American people and advancing the values and ideals I hold dear,” she explained.
Harris, who has a profound attachment to California, considered the possibility of running for governor but ultimately decided against it. “I love this state, its people and its promise. It is my home. But after deep reflection, I’ve decided that I will not run for Governor in this election,” she stated.
Following her loss to Donald Trump in the last presidential election, Harris has been the center of speculation regarding her political ambitions. She pondered various paths, including another presidential bid, a gubernatorial run, or even a complete withdrawal from the political arena. Though she has not closed the door on a future presidential attempt, the timing of such a decision remains uncertain.
Harris refrained from mentioning Trump directly but criticized the failures of political institutions, saying they have brought the nation to a crisis point.
While her immediate future will not include holding elected office, Harris remains committed to public service. “For now, my leadership — and public service — will not be in elected office. 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 mentioned.
Despite choosing not to enter the gubernatorial race to succeed term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom, Harris’s political career could have started in that direction. Her reputation, fundraising ability, and history of state-wide victories would have made her a formidable candidate. Before her roles as U.S. Senator and Vice President, she held office as state attorney general and district attorney in San Francisco. Nevertheless, Harris’s inclination for higher political ambitions may have ultimately led her to different avenues.
Longtime advisor and Democratic strategist Sean Clegg revealed Harris’s contemplation of a gubernatorial campaign but suggested her interest lies elsewhere, such as engaging younger voters through non-profit initiatives. “She’s been in elective office for 22 straight years, she’s been in public service since she got out of law school,” Clegg stated, emphasizing her intent to ignite change from outside the system.
Harris’s political journey has seen historic triumphs and some setbacks. Despite dropping out of the 2020 Democratic presidential contest before the initial Iowa caucuses, she rebounded as Joe Biden’s vice-presidential pick and made history, albeit losing the 2024 presidential race to Trump. For Harris to embark on another White House race, she’ll need to secure backing as the party’s future voice, despite her past defeats.
The 2028 presidential race is poised to draw a crowded field that may even feature Newsom. Any contender will need to unify a divided Democratic Party with waning approval as it strives to counter Trump’s agenda. Harris’s recent public comments emphasize the rejection of Trump’s vision, describing it as a departure from American principles.
Remaining out of the gubernatorial race keeps the competition to succeed Newsom wide open, featuring candidates like former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter, ex-Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former Biden health secretary Xavier Becerra, and other state leaders. Villaraigosa anticipates further political strides from Harris, noting her decision “reflects her continued commitment to serving at the highest levels of government.”