Kamala Harris Rules Out Running for California Governor in 2026

July 30–31, 2025 — In a move that reshapes California’s upcoming gubernatorial race, former Vice President and 2024 Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris has officially announced she will not run for governor in 2026. The declaration ended weeks of speculation about her political future following her loss to Donald Trump in the November 2024 election.

Harris, an Oakland native and California political veteran, said she gave "serious thought" to asking Californians for the privilege to serve as their governor but ultimately decided her leadership and public service will not be in elected office for now

In a separate interview on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Harris characterized the U.S. political system as “broken”, describing her stepping back as a deliberate break from traditional politics and stating her preference for public engagement without campaigning for votes.

Key Takeaways

• Her decision opens up California’s Democratic gubernatorial field, removing the early frontrunner and energizing other contenders Newsweek+13AP News+13The 19th+13.

• Harris left the door open for a possible 2028 presidential run, a path now given clearer space by bypassing the gubernatorial race AP News+15The Washington Post+15New York Post+15.

• A close adviser remarked she made her decision after a “gut check” and admitted she felt “reasonable doubt” about mounting a state-wide campaign at this time CalMatters+10Politico+10The Washington Post+10.

Next Steps for Harris:

• Focus is expected to shift toward writing and promoting her memoir, 107 Days, and engaging in national political efforts and fundraising.

• She may also launch advocacy or youth initiatives and support Democratic efforts in the midterms and beyond en.wikipedia.org+4The Times+4The Washington Post+4.