Kamala Harris Declines Running for California Governor in 2026; Hints at New Professional Venture Instead
In a surprising turn of events, Vice President Kamala Harris announced on July 30, 2023, that she will not run for California governor in 2026. This decision has set the stage for a wide-open and highly competitive race for the state's top position.
Harris, who began her life and career in California, had been rumoured to be considering a run for governor within weeks of her 2024 presidential defeat. However, she planned to make her decision about a gubernatorial bid by the end of summer 2025, according to reports.
Harris's departure from the race leaves a void that several potential candidates are eager to fill. Among the main contenders are Katie Porter, Xavier Becerra, Antonio Villaraigosa, Toni Atkins, Betty Yee, and Tony Thurmond.
Katie Porter, a former U.S. Representative and law professor, is considered the Democratic front-runner as of mid-2025, with polling showing her leading the primary at 18%. Porter, known for her progressive profile and having recently run for Senate, is poised to make a strong bid for the governor's seat.
Xavier Becerra, who ties himself to Harris’s legacy, brings federal and state executive experience to the table. Becerra, who served as the Secretary of Health and Human Services and was the California Attorney General, is a formidable contender.
Antonio Villaraigosa, with a strong base from his time as LA mayor and his previous gubernatorial run, is another prominent contender.
Notably, Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis has dropped out of the governor’s race to run for state treasurer, narrowing the Democratic field.
The Republican field appears less competitive due to California's strong Democratic lean. Republicans have not won a statewide race in California for nearly two decades, making Democrats the strong favourites.
Kamala Harris would have been the automatic front-runner in the 2026 gubernatorial race had she sought to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom. However, Newsom is prohibited by California term limits from serving more than eight years.
Harris kept some of her most senior White House aides with her when she formed her new Pioneer49 organization, suggesting that she may still have political ambitions. In her statement announcing her decision not to run for governor, Harris stated that Democrats will need to embrace "fresh thinking" and not be "bound by the same playbook" moving forward.
Other strong Democratic candidates for California governor include former California State Controller Betty Yee and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. The race for California governor in 2026 is shaping up to be the first truly open election in over 25 years.
[1] California Politics News [2] Los Angeles Times [3] San Francisco Chronicle [4] Politico
- The media is abuzz with the news of Vice President Kamala Harris's decision not to run for California governor in 2026.
- World politics has seen a shift with this surprising move by Harris, opening up a competitive race for the top position in California.
- Business analysts are weighing in on the potential implications of Harris's decision on the California political arena.
- Migration patterns within California politics may change as various contenders emerge to fill the void left by Harris.
- Education and self-development discussions may shift towards understanding the skills required for a successful career in politics following Harris's decision.
- Personal growth and mindfulness techniques could also be beneficial for those entering the heated race for California governor.
- War and conflicts could arise as the various candidates engage in intense campaigns, raising issues of policy and legislation.
- Productivity and organization are crucial for those candidates looking to appeal to voters and stand out in the crowded California gubernatorial race.
- Career development opportunities abound for politicians seeking to fill Harris's spot in the race, with potential candidates lining up to contest for the position.
- In the wake of Harris's decision, the policy and legislation landscape for California may change dramatically, as new leaders take charge.
- Car accidents and other unforeseen incidents could impact the campaigns of the contenders as they travel around California to connect with voters.
- Katie Porter, considered the Democratic front-runner, is poised to make a strong impact in the California gubernatorial race.
- Xavier Becerra, with his federal and state executive experience, is also emerging as a formidable contender in the California gubernatorial race.
- Antonio Villaraigosa, with a strong base from his time as LA mayor and previous gubernatorial run, is another prominent name in the race for the California governor's seat.
- The online education landscape may evolve as potential candidates engage in webinars, town halls, and other digital events to reach voters.
- Job search strategies for political candidates may become more sophisticated, with increased emphasis on social media and digital networking.
- General news outlets have been covering the California gubernatorial race extensively, offering in-depth analysis of the candidates and their platforms.
- Crime and justice are expected to be key issues in the 2026 California gubernatorial race, as candidates share their views on tackling crime and promoting justice.
- As accidents, fires, and other emergencies arise during the campaign season, candidates must show their ability to respond effectively to crises.
- Learning from the past, testing new strategies, and setting goals for the future are essential aspects of lifelong learning for political candidates.
- Skills training and development will be vital for those seeking to navigate the competitive California gubernatorial race.
- Sports fans may find an unexpected connection to the California gubernatorial race, as some contenders have been involved in basketball, football, baseball, hockey, golf, and other sports.
- Data and sports betting trends could potentially influence voter behavior in the California gubernatorial race, as sports connections may resonate with certain demographics.
- Across European leagues and American sports associations, the 2026 California gubernatorial race is generating interest and debate, further underscoring its significance on the global stage.
