Ending months of speculation, former Vice President Kamala Harris announced Wednesday she will not run for governor of California, leaving the gubernatorial race wide open and immediately fueling speculation about whether she might again seek the presidency in 2028.
Harris indicated earlier this year was considering a gubernatorial bid but wanted to take time to weight the decision. In a statement Wednesday, the Brentwood resident said that while “I love this state, its people and its promise,” she will not throw her hat in the ring.
“For now, my leadership — and public service — will not be in elected office,” Harris said. “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.
“In the United States of America, power must lie with the people. And We, the People must use our power to fight for freedom, opportunity, fairness, and the dignity of all. I will remain in that fight.”
She did not give a specific reasoning behind her decision, but said, “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. 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’ announcement immediately fueled online speculation about a possible 2028 presidential bid. After serving as vice president under President Joe Biden, Harris lost her 2024 presidential run to now-President Donald Trump.
Harris also ran for the presidency in 2020, but withdrew from the race relatively early, later being tabbed by Biden as his running mate.
Two Republicans — Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and former Fox News host Steve Hilton — have already announced a 2026 bid for the governor’s office. A host of Democrats have also joined the race — former congressman and U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, former Orange County Rep. Katie Porter, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, state schools chief Tony Thurmond, former Controller Betty Yee, former state Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins and entrepreneur Stephen Cloobeck.
Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Long Beach, reacted to Harris’ announcement, writing on X, “Kamala Harris has served our state as attorney general, U.S. Senator, and vice president. We could not be more grateful. Excited about her hitting the road and traveling the country to help us flip the House and win back Congress. Let’s go!”