Kamala Harris Nears Decision on California Governor 2026 Race

Kamala Harris remains a significant yet controversial figure in the Democratic Party as she contemplates a run for California governor in 2026 or a presidential bid in 2028. While her name would give her a strong advantage in the crowded gubernatorial race to replace term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom, many Democrats express frustration and skepticism about her commitment to California, fearing she might treat the governorship as a stepping stone for another presidential campaign. Harris has maintained a low profile at recent Democratic events, such as the California Democratic Party convention, where her absence was notable and raised questions about her political calculations amid ongoing scrutiny of her past presidential campaign and vice presidency. Some party delegates and strategists are hesitant or conflicted about supporting her, citing a lack of engagement with California-specific issues since Trump's inauguration and concerns over her leadership style. Nevertheless, Harris's national prominence and fundraising ability position her as a frontrunner should she decide to enter the race. The debate over her future highlights a broader uncertainty among Democrats about her political trajectory and the impact of her potential candidacies on the party’s cohesion and electoral prospects.