Former Vice President Kamala Harris seems to be facing a lukewarm response from California Democratic fundraisers regarding her possible bid for governor, as reported by Politico on Friday.
The publication reached out to several Democratic donors in California to gauge their reactions to Harris’ interest in running for governor after her defeat in the 2024 presidential election. So far, her consideration doesn’t seem to have generated much enthusiasm.
“She’s still set to lead, but honestly, no one’s overly excited,” a fundraiser from Southern California shared with Politico.
Harris, who lost to President Donald Trump in November, is contemplating a run for governor in 2026, seeking to succeed the term-limited Gavin Newsom. A source close to her indicated in March that she would make a decision about a campaign by the summer’s end.
Harris faces two main choices: to launch her governor campaign in her hometown next year or to try for the presidency again in 2028. An early poll suggests she currently has a significant lead over other potential Democratic candidates, primarily based on name recognition.
Politico noted that several major donors expressed concern that her reemergence as a candidate could reopen old wounds from her 2024 loss. Some among the fundraiser groups who had backed her previously are focused on ensuring a viable plan to win the governor’s mansion, especially after her unsuccessful effort cost a considerable amount.
Mother Martin, a party fundraiser in San Francisco who has supported Harris in the past, remarked that initial enthusiasm for her potential run has shifted. “I think it’s a bit weakened,” he noted.
Another donor, who contributed significantly to Harris’ presidential campaign, conveyed feelings of trauma from her failed bid, indicating a hesitance to back her for state office.
The donor reflected, “No one is really excited about Harris’ run,” emphasizing a realization that the effort to elevate her campaign felt chaotic.
Scott Drexel, a financial advisor based in the San Francisco Gulf area, commented on the uncertainty surrounding her potential campaign, stating, “It’s very difficult to move forward unless it’s clear that she genuinely wants this.”
Drexel also pointed out, “With each passing day, there’s a decreasing sense of inevitability about her running.”
Democratic donor Joe Cotchet added his thoughts to the conversation, while Harris’ team has yet to respond to requests for comment from various outlets.
