Kamala Harris is reportedly considering a run for California governor, according to sources familiar with her thoughts. However, it’s important to note that she hasn’t made a final decision and is still weighing her options. Those close to her say that the idea of entering the race has sparked a fresh excitement, described by one source as a “glimmer in her eyes.”
A confidant mentioned that many in her circle believe it makes logical sense for her to run and that she’s well-positioned to succeed. Still, another source cautioned against assuming she’s eager to jump into competition, noting that discussions about the governor’s race frequently come up in her conversations for the 2026 election.
Harris intends to set a self-imposed deadline by late summer to decide on her participation in what is already a crowded field, including former Los Angeles Mayor Xavier Becerra and others. She plans to take a break in July to reflect on her next steps in the political arena.
Harris’ office hasn’t commented on the situation. Recently, she has engaged in several discussions about California’s political landscape, particularly focusing on issues that matter to younger voters and the future of artificial intelligence.
After experiencing a tough loss in the 2024 presidential election, Harris’ recent public involvement hasn’t drawn much attention. California has been at the center of various events, including protests against Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) and wildfires. In her comments about the protests, she referred to Los Angeles as home, expressing concern over the deployment of the National Guard as a problematic and confusing escalation fueled by the Trump administration.
Sources suggest that she is quite troubled by recent governmental actions, describing it as a form of governance based on loyalty and retaliation. They feel that this context could motivate her to return to public service.
Yet, if she decides to run, she will likely face scrutiny over whether she contributed to the decline of former President Biden’s administration. One of her opponents, Villaraigosa, has raised these questions as well, emphasizing that voters deserve transparency about when Harris and Becerra became aware of certain situations.
Within some Democratic circles, there are thoughts that running for governor may seem like a “consolation prize” after her presidential campaign fell short last year. Some of her close associates are starting to tire of such narratives, suggesting Harris is dismissing these comments.
Her choice to enter the governor’s race could carry significant implications for potential presidential ambitions in 2028, with political analysts noting that it might be challenging for her to compete for the governor’s seat without completely committing to forgo a presidential run.
A recent Emerson College poll indicated that half of California’s Democratic voters would support her for governor, while another survey from Politico/UC Berkeley revealed mixed feelings among voters about her bid. While she may start as a front-runner due to her name recognition, there might be growing apprehension within the party if she enters the race.
Despite speculation, some former aides and political observers remain skeptical that she will ultimately run for governor. Notably, during recent protests in Los Angeles, Harris was attending a wedding in the Hamptons and had made a public appearance at a gala in San Francisco without addressing state issues.
If she intends to run, she’s expected to approach it with seriousness and focus. One communication advisor who has worked with her suggested that if she’s serious about the prospects, this summer would be crucial for re-engaging with Californians.
Since becoming vice president, Harris has primarily made appearances outside of California. She’s spoken at several events, including a private conference in Australia and a conference on AI in Las Vegas, with limited public engagement within the state.
Following her presidential loss, some California Democrats are questioning how best to navigate the political landscape moving forward. One strategist highlighted that the party wants a candidate who can confront Trump, raising concerns about whether someone who recently faced a significant defeat could effectively step into the role of governor.
