Jens Asbjørn Bøgen
Instead, she is planning to help Democrats get elected across the nation.
Instead, she is planning to help Democrats get elected across the nation.
Harris plans for the future
According to New York Times, former Vice President Kamala Harris announced she will not run for California governor in 2026, putting an end to months of speculation.
The decision follows her loss in the 2024 presidential election, marking a shift away from elected office—for now.
A pause from public office, not public life
In a public statement, Harris said, “For now, my leadership — and public service — will not be in elected office.”
She added that she plans to stay politically active by supporting Democratic candidates and will reveal more about her future plans in the coming months.
A low-profile return to California
Since returning to Los Angeles in January, Harris had quietly explored a gubernatorial run.
However, she showed little enthusiasm—skipping major state events and avoiding outreach to key power players, like influential labor unions.
Eyes on 2028 — or beyond
Insiders say Harris has been weighing several options: a gubernatorial campaign, a potential third run for president in 2028, or stepping away from politics entirely.
By skipping the 2026 governor’s race, she keeps the door open for a national political comeback.
A potential showdown with Newsom
If Harris pursues the presidency again, she could find herself competing with California Governor Gavin Newsom—a longtime ally—who’s been building a national profile through podcasting and visits to primary states like South Carolina.
Out of the Spotlight, but not out of sight
Since her electoral defeat, Harris has largely kept a low public profile.
She gave a paid speech in Australia and was seen at high-profile weddings, including those of Eve Jobs and Hillary Clinton’s top aide, as well as at the Met Gala in New York.
Silent through California’s political storm
This summer, as California faced political unrest—federal immigration raids and military deployments—Harris mostly stayed silent.
Her few social media comments stood in contrast to other Democrats’ active public engagement and organizing.
Lingering questions from 2024
Despite winning the 2024 Democratic nomination unopposed after Biden dropped out, Harris hasn’t publicly addressed why her campaign failed.
She also hasn’t offered a strategy for how Democrats can regain ground, leaving many in the party puzzled.
Exit reshapes the Governor’s Race
Harris stepping aside clears the path for other Democrats. High-profile figures like Antonio Villaraigosa, Xavier Becerra, Katie Porter, and Eleni Kounalakis are now expected to play larger roles in the 2026 race—freeing up donors and attention previously reserved for Harris.
