In a surprising turn, former Vice President Kamala Harris has declared she will not seek the governorship of California in the 2026 election.
According to ABC News, after months of contemplation, Harris announced on Wednesday that she would step back from the gubernatorial race, potentially setting the stage for a presidential bid in 2028.
Harris, who has deep ties to California as her home state, has spent recent months weighing a run for governor. Her decision-making process involved careful thought about her role in public service and the future of the Democratic Party. This reflection followed her loss in the presidential election, prompting her to consider new ways to serve.
Over the past several months, Harris has been evaluating how she can best support her party and the nation. She expressed a strong connection to California, describing it as her home and a place of immense promise. Despite this bond, she concluded that running for governor at this time was not the right step.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Harris shared her choice with the public. "In recent months, I have given serious thought to asking the people of California for the privilege to serve as their Governor," she said. "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 also acknowledged the challenges within the current political landscape. "I have extraordinary admiration and respect for those who dedicate their lives to public service—service to their communities and to our nation," she noted. "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."
She emphasized the need for innovative strategies in governance. "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 stated. This perspective hints at her vision for future involvement in politics.
Harris reaffirmed her dedication to serving the public, reflecting on her extensive career. "I am a devout public servant, and from the earliest days of my career, I have believed that the best way I could make a difference in people's lives and fight for a better future was to improve the system from within," she said. "And it has been a profound honor to do that work and serve the people of California and our nation -- as a prosecutor, Attorney General, United States Senator, and Vice President."
Even as she steps away from the gubernatorial race, Harris remains active in political spheres. Earlier this month, she participated virtually in a summit aimed at young voters, signaling her ongoing engagement. Additionally, in June, she attended an event for an abortion rights advocacy group, showing her commitment to key issues.
Beyond personal appearances, Harris is contributing to the Democratic Party through fundraising efforts. Her joint fundraising committee, the Harris Victory Fund, in collaboration with the Democratic National Committee, has begun supporting former North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper’s new Senate campaign. This move indicates her intent to bolster party efforts across the country.
While Harris has ruled out a run for California governor in 2026, she has not closed the door on other political ambitions. Speculation about a possible presidential candidacy in 2028 continues, as she has yet to make a definitive statement on that front. Her decision not to pursue the governorship may provide the flexibility needed for such a future endeavor.
Harris has expressed eagerness to reconnect with citizens and hear their concerns. "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," she shared. This commitment suggests she will remain a prominent figure in the political arena.
Despite stepping back from the gubernatorial race, Harris is determined to continue advocating for important causes. She noted that she was finding other ways to "remain in that fight" for "freedom, opportunity, fairness, and the dignity of all." Her passion for these values remains a driving force in her career.
Harris has promised to provide further insight into her future intentions soon. She reiterated that she would share "more details in the months ahead" about her plans. For now, her supporters and political observers alike await her next move with anticipation.