California’s Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kunarakis, who launched her campaign for governor over two years ago, has decided to withdraw and instead run for the state’s treasurer position. She believes, as stated by Democrats, that focusing on California’s financial future is critical at this moment.
An email was sent to the Kunarakis campaign early Friday by Fox News Digital, seeking comments from the Lieutenant Governor.
Meanwhile, a GOP House member mentioned that “all options are on the table,” hinting at ongoing discussions or strategies.
In a recent statement, former Vice President Kamala Harris shared that she had given serious thought to running for governor but ultimately chose not to pursue it. This decision comes in the context of the upcoming 2026 Governor’s Contest, where the landscape remains open since current Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, is term-limited and unable to run again.
With California’s regulations capping governors at two terms, the next election is already generating attention. Newsom, who began his tenure in 2019, notably survived a recall election in 2021 before successfully winning re-election in 2022.
Potential candidates eyeing Newsom’s position include former U.S. Representative Katie Porter and former Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra, adding to the dynamic of the race.
