California Governor Primary Update

With the California Governor Primary approaching, former Vice President Kamala Harris has announced she won’t be running to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom in 2026. On July 30, she stated her decision not to seek an elected position “for now.”

She reflected, saying, “Recently, I’ve considered asking Californians for their support as governor. I have a deep love for this state and its people. It’s my home. However, after thoughtful consideration, I’ve chosen not to run in this election.”

Changes in the Race

In the wake of Harris’s announcement, Eleni Kunarakis has also stepped back from the governor’s race to focus on her accounting career instead. She said, “This choice wasn’t easy. But I believe I can make a more significant difference by concentrating on California’s financial future.”

Kunarakis has long been close to Harris and appeared to have backing from former Speaker Nancy Pelosi prior to her exit. Pelosi mentioned, “I have excellent candidates, especially Eleni Tzakopoulos, who I support,” in a recent CNN interview.

Reactions and Future Candidates

Kunarakis’s withdrawal drew a response from real estate figure Rick Caruso, who previously ran against Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass in 2022. He praised her, stating, “Eleni Kunarakis represents the creativity and drive that California is known for. As a respected business leader, she’s created numerous jobs for families in our state.”

Despite the departures, the candidate pool remains substantial. Notable figures still in the running include former Councilman Katie Porter, ex-Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, Tony Thurmond, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.

Looking Ahead

The decision by Harris to avoid running in 2026 may open pathways for a potential presidential run in 2028, though neither she nor Newsom has making their future plans public. The primary election is scheduled for June 2, 2026.