6:26Kamala Harris speaks at the Emerge 20th Anniversary Gala in San Francisco, California, on April 30, 2025.Camille Cohen/AFP via Getty Images
Former Vice President Kamala Harris has decided not to pursue the role of California governor in 2026, following months of contemplating the possibility of leading her home state.
"Recently, I have thoughtfully considered seeking the opportunity to serve as the Governor of California. I cherish this state, its residents, and its potential. It is my home. However, after considerable contemplation, I have concluded that I will not be a candidate for Governor in this election," she stated in a message released on Wednesday.
This choice may afford Harris more flexibility regarding a presidential campaign in 2028, a possibility she has not dismissed. She mentioned that she would provide "more information in the coming months" about her future intentions.
"I hold immense admiration and respect for individuals who dedicate their lives to public service—serving their communities and our nation. Simultaneously, we must acknowledge that our political landscape, government, and institutions have frequently let down the American people, leading to this moment of crisis," Harris explained. "As we move forward, we must be open to pursuing change through innovative approaches and fresh perspectives—dedicated to our core values and principles, yet not constrained by the same strategies."
Kamala Harris speaks at the Emerge 20th Anniversary Gala in San Francisco, California, on April 30, 2025.Camille Cohen/AFP via Getty Images
Harris made this announcement after reflecting for months on how to best support the Democratic Party following her presidential election defeat, she remarked.
"I am a committed public servant, and from the early stages of my career, I have believed that the most effective way I could impact people’s lives and advocate for a brighter future was to reform the system from within. It has been a tremendous honor to engage in this work and serve the citizens of California and our nation—as a prosecutor, Attorney General, United States Senator, and Vice President," Harris stated.
In recent months, Harris has re-engaged in politics, participating virtually at a summit for young voters earlier this month and with an abortion rights advocacy group in June. Her collaborative fundraising committee with the Democratic National Committee, the Harris Victory Fund, has also started fundraising in support of former North Carolina Democratic Governor Roy Cooper’s new Senate campaign.
Harris indicated that although she is not running for governor, she is exploring other ways to "stay engaged in that struggle" for "freedom, opportunity, fairness, and the dignity of all."
"I am eager to get back out there and hear from the American people, assist in electing Democrats nationwide who will fight tenaciously, and share more information in the coming months about my own plans," Harris expressed.
Sourse: abcnews.go.com
