LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – Former US Vice President Kamala Harris has announced that she will not run for California governor in 2026, leaving open the possibility of a third bid for the White House in 2028.
Harris made the decision public in a statement released by her office on Wednesday, citing a desire to focus on fighting for American people and advancing the values and ideals she holds dear.
Harris, who served as vice president from 2021 to 2025, spent months weighing her options, including running for governor, staging another presidential campaign, or stepping away from electoral politics altogether.
In her statement, Harris expressed her love for California and its people but ultimately decided against pursuing the governorship.
The former vice president has not ruled out another presidential bid, following unsuccessful campaigns in 2020 and 2024.
Harris lost the 2024 presidential election to Donald Trump, and it is unclear when she will make a decision about her future political ambitions.
In her statement, Harris emphasized the need for Americans to use their power to fight for freedom, opportunity, fairness, and dignity.
She also expressed a desire to listen to the American people and help elect Democrats who will fight fearlessly, hinting at her continued involvement in politics.
Harris’ decision not to run for governor means the contest to replace term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom remains wide open.
The Democratic field includes former US Rep. Katie Porter, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former Biden administration health secretary Xavier Becerra, and several state officeholders.
If Harris does decide to mount another presidential campaign, she will face an uncertain path.
She would need to convince national Democrats that she is the face of the party’s future, despite her previous losses to Trump.
Additionally, Harris carries the baggage of being tied to President Joe Biden, whose legacy has been tarnished in recent months.