Former Vice President Kamala Harris announced she will not seek the governorship of California, ending months of speculation about her political future.
The decision comes as Democrats brace for critical midterm elections in 2026 and amid rising questions about Harris’ next move on the national stage.
Harris released a statement on X formally declining to run.
“In recent months, I have given serious thought to asking the people of California for the privilege to serve as their Governor,” Harris wrote.
“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.”
Her statement continued, emphasizing her respect for public service while acknowledging growing dissatisfaction with institutions and political leadership.
“I have extraordinary admiration and respect for those who dedicate their lives to public service—service to their communities and to our nation,” she said.
“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.”
She continued, “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 added.
Harris’ decision follows ongoing reports from media outlets including Politico and CNN that she had been actively considering the run.
After the 2024 presidential election, Harris reportedly told aides that she wanted to keep her political options open.
She was expected to make a final decision by the summer of 2025, according to sources familiar with her planning.
While deliberating, Harris’ staff began crafting a message that would affirm her leadership within the Democratic Party and respond to the return of Donald Trump to the presidency.
Political insiders noted the balancing act Harris faced—either return to state politics in a high-profile role or position herself for another run at the White House in 2028.
The former vice president’s withdrawal from consideration has created ripple effects in California politics, according to reports.
Harris, who previously served as California’s Attorney General and U.S. Senator, had been widely seen as a top-tier contender should she enter the race.
Her name recognition and deep fundraising network could have quickly reshaped the field.
The prospect of her candidacy, however, raised concerns among some California Democrats, particularly in the U.S. House of Representatives.
CNN reported that several House Democrats expressed worry that Harris running for governor could energize Republican voters and undermine Democratic efforts to retain or flip key congressional seats.
“There’s no groundswell for her candidacy,” one anonymous California House Democrat told CNN, as outlined by the Daily Caller.
“In fact, I think it would only fire up Republicans and hurt our ability to win the four to five seats that we need to win to win the House and hold on to three seats that we just flipped in 2024.”
The lawmaker added, “She comes in with baggage,” pointing to concerns about her approval ratings, past controversies, and performance during her vice presidency.
On the Republican side, Harris’ potential candidacy also sparked interest.
Ric Grenell, who served in the Trump administration as the Special Presidential Envoy for Special Missions, had floated a possible run for governor if Harris entered the race.
“If Kamala Harris runs for governor … It’s a new day in California and that the Republican actually has a shot, and I wouldn’t say no,” Grenell told reporters in February.
The post Kamala Harris Drops Pivotal Political Announcement appeared first on Resist the Mainstream.
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Author: Jordyn M.
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