Speculation Dies with Harris’ Announcement
Vice President Kamala Harris meets with Republican supporters after speaking at a rally in Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania on Wednesday, October 16, 2024. (Andrew McKeough/AKSM Photography)
Former Vice President Kamala Harris announced that she will not be running for California governor.
Article by Avery Junker, Senior White House Correspondent
BRENTWOOD, Calif. - Months of speculation over a possible run for California governor came to an end for former Vice President Kamala Harris.
In a prepared statement released on social media Wednesday afternoon, Harris said, "In recent months, I have given serious thought to asking the people of California for the privilege to serve as their Governor. 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."
“I have extraordinary admiration and respect for those who dedicate their lives to public service—service to their communities and to our nation,” she continued. 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.”
At once, her statement shut down all ambitions in California and opened the door for a potential national run: "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."
When or if the nation will see a 2028 presidential run from Harris is unknown; however, the ambiguity of her statement alludes to a potential campaign.
In the past, Harris served in California as the state attorney general and then as a U.S. senator before becoming former President Joe Biden's running mate in 2020. After his sudden drop as the democratic nominee in July of 2024, Harris replaced Biden in the race towards the Oval Office.
Her loss to President Donald Trump did little to deter Harris, as she has maintained a strong national presence since November and gained support in the gubernatorial race in California.
Due to term limits, California's current governor, Gavin Newsom, is unable to run for re-election. Although there's no clear front-runner, current democratic candidates include California Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, California state Attorney General Xavier Becerra, former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter (CA-47), former California state senate president Toni Atkins, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.