Kamala Harris's Decision to Skip California Governor Race Leaves Options Open for 2028 Presidential Bid

Strategic Insights -

As Kamala Harris decides not to run for governor of California, a path to a potential 2028 presidential campaign is left open, despite her fellow Democrats preparing for a future without her involvement. Harris's decision, guided by her desire to take a break from politics and make changes from outside the system, has raised questions about her future ambitions. While some close to her advise against interpreting her decision as a guide for 2028, several sources confirm that all options remain on the table.

Key Takeaways:

  • Kamala Harris's decision not to run for governor of California leaves the door open for a potential 2028 presidential campaign.
  • Despite her fellow Democrats preparing for a future without her involvement, Harris's name remains at the top of early 2028 primary polling, largely due to her relative level of fame.
  • A number of candidates she had previously vetted as potential running mates could become primary rivals if she decides to run, including Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
  • Harris would face scrutiny for her support of Joe Biden during his re-election campaign and her subsequent criticism of certain decisions made by the president.
  • Harris is expected to work on a book and form an organization to raise funds and support Democratic candidates in the 2026 midterms.
  • Representative Robert Garcia said Harris plans to travel to competitive House districts to assist Democratic candidates, with a focus on flipping the House in 2026.

Statistics:

  • A half-dozen people advised against overinterpreting Harris's decision as a guide for her 2028 plans.
  • Harris has been at or near the top of early 2028 primary polling, primarily due to her level of fame.
  • Of the candidates Harris had vetted for a potential running mate, President Biden would not be considered a viable candidate in the 2028 Democratic primary.
  • Harris's age, 60, makes her significantly younger than President Biden, allowing her to potentially run again in 2028.
  • Harris's decision not to run for governor may impact the competitive nature of the 2028 Democratic presidential primary.

Sources:

  • "A Harris ally says “all options are on the table” but cautions against reading too much into the former vice president’s choice to skip the California governor race."
  • Laphonza Butler: "I don’t think that any of us should jump to the conclusion that this decision had anything to do with 2028.”
  • Roger Wolfson: "There’s always the fear that if she runs for president again, 2028 could devolve into a discussion of what went wrong in 2024.”
  • Representative Robert Garcia: “She’s going to be all across the country for the 2026 midterms.”
  • Shawn Hubler: contributed reporting.