Kamala Harris Confirms: She Will Not Run for California Governor in 2026
Kamala Harris says she will not run for California governor in 2026, ending speculation about her post-White House plans. “My path lies elsewhere,” she said.
Vice President Kamala Harris has officially announced that she will not be entering the 2026 California governor’s race, ending months of speculation about her post-White House plans.
In a brief statement released Tuesday, Harris said she is “focused on serving the American people in her current role” and has no intention of seeking the governor’s seat, despite growing pressure from California Democrats to consider a bid.
“I remain committed to advancing justice, equality, and opportunity at the national level,” Harris said. “California will always be home, but my path lies elsewhere.”
Her decision clears the field for a number of prominent contenders already eyeing the race, including Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Rep. Ro Khanna.
Harris previously served as California’s Attorney General and U.S. Senator before becoming Vice President in 2021.
