Kamala Harris will not run for California governor next year, she has confirmed.
Ms Harris’s decision not to run could leave the door open for a third run for the presidency in 2028.
“Over the past six months, I have spent time reflecting on this moment in our nation’s history and the best way for me to continue fighting for the American people and advancing the values and ideals I hold dear,” she said in a statement.
“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.”
Ms Harris has spent months privately considering whether to run for governor, stage another run for the White House or step away from electoral politics altogether after her bruising loss to Donald Trump last year.
She has not ruled out another run for president, after unsuccessful campaigns in 2020 and 2024.
In her statement, although she did not mention Mr Trump directly, Ms Harris said: “Our politics, our government, and our institutions have too often failed the American people, culminating in this moment of crisis.
“For now, my leadership - and public service - will not be in elected office.
“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,” she added.
Ms Harris would have entered the contest to replace term-limited Gavin Newsom as a front-runner given her widespread name recognition, fundraising prowess, and track record of winning statewide elections.
Before serving as a Senator and vice-president, she was elected California state attorney general and district attorney in San Francisco.
Ms Harris’s decision not to seek the governorship leaves the contest to replace Mr Newsom wide open.
The Democratic field includes Katie Porter, a former congresswoman, Antonio Villaraigosa, a former Los Angeles Mayor, and Xavier Becerra, a former Biden administration health secretary, among others.
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