Kamala Harris puts an end to speculation about bid for California governor

Former Vice President Kamala Harris will not run for California governor after giving the decision some serious thought in the months since leaving the White House.

“For now, my leadership — and public service — will not be in elected office,” she said in a statement released Wednesday.

“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.”

This opens the playing field to a long list of candidates, including former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra and Rep. Katie Porter, who can now run for California governor without the fear of stepping on Harris’ toes.

Although this ends speculation about the state race, it raises more questions about her plans for the future and whether the 2024 Democratic nominee would consider running for president again in 2028.

She hinted at staying in the world of politics, but not necessarily by holding office.

“I have extraordinary admiration and respect for those who dedicate their lives to public service — service to their communities and to our nation,” Harris said in her Wednesday statement.

“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.”

Harris refrained from revealing any concrete plans for the future.

CNN reported Harris is focusing her attention on securing Democratic wins in the 2026 midterms, including by creating a political action committee for fundraising. According to the report, a source who spoke to Harris about her decision said the position of governor would need her “to get more specific” while working with the state legislature, but she’s “needed in the national conversation.”

Of the presidential run, the source said Harris doesn’t have to make the decision at present and can, instead, lead the party from the sidelines.