Former Vice President Kamala Harris announced Wednesday that she will not run for governor of California in 2026, putting an end to speculation that she would seek her state’s top executive role after her loss to President Trump in November.
“In recent months, I have given serious thought to asking the people of California for the privilege to serve as their Governor. I love this state, its people, and its promise. It is my home. But after deep reflection, I’ve decided that I will not run for Governor in this election,” Harris said in a statement.
The former vice president said she spent time reflecting over the past six months since losing the election, after taking over the Democratic ticket when former President Biden dropped out of the race.
“I have extraordinary admiration and respect for those who dedicate their lives to public service—service to their communities and to our nation. At the same time, we must recognize that our politics, our government, and our institutions have too often failed the American people, culminating in this moment of crisis,” Harris said. “As we look ahead, we must be willing to pursue change through new methods and fresh thinking—committed to our same values and principles, but not bound by the same playbook.”
Harris was considering all her options before making her decision official and has made it clear she is not done with public service.
She said Wednesday she will get more active in helping Democrats this cycle.
“For now, my leadership—and public service—will not be in elected office. I look forward to getting back out and listening to the American people, helping elect Democrats across the nation who will fight fearlessly, and sharing more details in the months ahead about my own plans,” Harris said in the statement.
Her decision is sure to fuel further speculation that she’s planning to mount another bid for the White House in 2028.
Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and former California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, Biden’s secretary of Health and Human Services, are among the Democrats running so far to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom (D), who is term limited.
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