Kamala Harris announces her decision on running for California governor
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Kamala Harris confirmed she will not run for California governor in 2026.
- Harris cited reflection and commitment to public service outside elected office.
- Despite high poll numbers, Harris plans to support Democrats and oppose Trump.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris announced Wednesday that she will not run for California governor next year.
“I am a devout public servant, and from the earliest days of my career, I have believed that the best way I could make a difference in people’s lives and fight for a better future was to improve the system from within,” Harris wrote in a lengthy statement. “And it has been a profound honor to do that work and serve the people of California and our nation — as a prosecutor, Attorney General, United States Senator, and Vice President.
“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.”
Since losing to President Trump in November, Harris, an Oakland native, fielded calls from supporters to join the race to replace termed-out Gov. Gavin Newsom in 2026.
She spent months weighing the decision but decided against seeking elected office — at least for the time being.
“For now, my leadership — and public service — will not be in elected office,” Harris said. “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.”
Bolstered by her name ID, Harris consistently rose to the top of polls when included in lists of candidates running or considering a bid for governor. Before becoming vice president, Harris won statewide elections for the U.S. Senate and California attorney general.
But political experts predicted that if she entered the fray, Harris would have faced tough questions from opponents and voters over what she knew about former President Joe Biden’s declining health last year and would have to commit to staying four years in the governor’s office if she won.
While she will not seek the state’s highest office, Harris indicated she does not plan to step back from the public eye or fighting Trump’s policies and agenda — though she did not share specifics.
“Our politics, our government, and our institutions have too often failed the American people, culminating in this moment of crisis,” she said. “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.”
“We, the People must use our power to fight for freedom, opportunity, fairness, and the dignity of all. I will remain in that fight,” Harris concluded.
This story was originally published July 30, 2025 at 12:00 PM with the headline "Kamala Harris announces her decision on running for California governor."
