Kamala Harris Supports California Democrats, But Not the Gubernatorial Race

On Monday, former Vice President Kamala Harris revealed her backing for various California Democratic Party candidates ahead of the upcoming June primary elections.

However, notable by its absence is her support for the California gubernatorial race.

An endorsement from Harris could have significantly influenced the crowded governor’s race, yet she—and several other prominent figures in California—seem to be staying out of it.

Harris had considered a run for governor last year and likely would have had strong support, but ultimately chose not to enter the race. Interestingly, she’s hinted that she might pursue a presidential run in the future.

Despite her lack of support, candidates are still making moves. Progressive billionaire Tom Steyer has targeted the leading Democratic contender, Xavier Becerra, even as Becerra’s lead appears to be narrowing.

Steyer’s campaign points out that because Harris didn’t endorse Becerra during her time as Secretary of Health and Human Services, it reflects poorly on his leadership. A spokesman for Steyer stated, “Becerra’s colleagues in the Biden administration have seen his incompetence up close, so it’s no surprise they were left out this time.” No comments have been made by Becerra’s team.

Alongside Harris, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Governor Gavin Newsom have also refrained from expressing support for any candidate in the gubernatorial contest.

Reportedly, Pelosi is not eager to disrupt the current political landscape. Her daughter, Christine, indicated, “People keep saying to me, ‘Mom needs to do something!’ But she’s already supported Biden and Harris. Don’t expect her to intervene again.”

Governor Newsom has similarly avoided backing any single candidate, stating he’ll vote Democratic in the general election while acknowledging the quality of candidates in the running. “There are numerous excellent candidates with remarkable histories. If you want, I could name at least seven,” he remarked.

The reluctance to endorse seems tied to fears that a divided Democratic field could dilute the liberal vote. Under California’s electoral rules, this fragmentation could allow two Republicans to advance to the general election, potentially sidelining Democrats completely.