Vice President Kamala Harris is weighing a potential gubernatorial campaign in California for 2026, a consideration stirring various opinions within her team and her party.

The possible candidacy comes as Harris contemplates her political trajectory in the wake of the 2024 presidential race, amid varied advice on prioritizing her aspirations for the presidential election in 2028, as the Post Millennial reports.

Harris's thought process about running for governor in 2026 highlights the strategic decisions she faces after a suboptimal presidential run in 2024. The potential for a gubernatorial run has sparked a debate over its implications on her wider political goals.

Debates Among Aides About Political Future

The discussions among Harris's advisors and close supporters are apparently divided. Some within her circle argue that pursuing the governor's office might hinder her prospects of becoming president in 2028.

One former advisor expressed that opting to run for California governor could be seen as counterproductive if Harris's ultimate objective remains the presidency. The advisor stated that assuming the governor’s office could impede a presidential ambition.

The consideration for the governorship arises as numerous Democratic Party leaders are preparing their own bids for the presidency in 2028. Harris's decision will be critical not only for her political path but also in shaping the upcoming battles within the Democratic Party.

Prominent Contender for Governor

Harris holds a wealth of experience in California politics, having served both as the state’s attorney general and as its U.S. senator. This background positions her as a formidable candidate should she decide to contest the governor’s seat.

Several key candidates considering the gubernatorial race may step aside if Harris enters, underscoring her influence and profile within California politics. However, official confirmation from Harris is still pending.

Despite her previous campaign setback, where her presidential bid in 2024 did not succeed, Harris nonetheless gathered substantial financial backing, raising over $1 billion during the effort. This fundraising achievement testifies to her capability in rallying support and resources.

Decision Deadline Looms in 2025

The timeline for Harris to make her decision is pressing, with advisors suggesting a course of action must be determined by the summer of 2025. This would allow her ample time to mount a competitive campaign should she opt for the gubernatorial race.

Since concluding her presidential campaign, Harris has largely maintained a low public profile, participating sparingly in public events. Her relatively quiet presence post-campaign has maintained an air of speculation about her future plans.

However, an upcoming engagement may provide fresh insights into her ambitions. Harris is slated to address students in Washington, D.C., focusing on future leadership, which potentially aligns with developing wider political goals.

Advisors Express Diverging Views

Some accounts from within her inner circle suggest skepticism about Harris's potential run for governor. An unnamed source indicated that the gubernatorial path could be considered a lesser step compared to the presidency.

They pointed out that a governor campaign might complicate a subsequent bid for the White House. Yet, the same source acknowledged uncertainty about whether Harris would aim at another presidential attempt.

In contrast, a White House official characterized her planned speech to young audiences as a continuation of her broader vision for the future, hinting at aspirations beyond immediate political offices.

Looking Ahead To 2028 and Beyond

The deliberations reflect broader considerations within Harris’s team regarding her position on the national stage. With a firm deadline approaching, clarity over Harris’s political intentions is anticipated by mid-2025.

For now, her public engagements remain sparse, but each appearance could signal her readiness to forge a new path, either in state or national politics. Meanwhile, her past experiences continue to keep her at the forefront of political discourse.

Whether Harris chooses to concentrate on California’s executive role or eyes the White House once more, her decision will undoubtedly influence the Democratic Party field and its strategies in upcoming major elections.