Is Kamala really ready to lose again?
Kamala Harris, the former Vice President under Joe Biden, is contemplating a significant decision about her political future, and the timing couldn’t be more critical for California. After her loss in last November’s presidential election to President Donald Trump, many have speculated about her next move. Now, it seems Harris is eyeing a 2026 run for California Governor, as the state’s current Governor, Gavin Newsom, is term-limited and cannot seek re-election.
A source close to Harris confirmed to Fox News that the former Vice President plans to make a final decision by the end of this summer regarding a potential gubernatorial bid. This news, first reported by Politico, has sparked fresh debates among political circles. While Harris hasn’t fully committed, many insiders believe she could clear the field for a Democrat-only race if she jumps in.
Harris, who has held various positions such as District Attorney of San Francisco, California Attorney General, and U.S. Senator, is no stranger to California politics. She became Vice President after Joe Biden won in 2020, and now that Biden’s presidency faces questions about his health and future, speculation continues about whether Harris could attempt to take the White House in 2028. However, running for Governor of California in 2026 would likely rule out a presidential run for her in 2028, according to political analysts.
California is a deeply blue state, and if Harris runs, she would undoubtedly be the frontrunner, likely clearing out most of her Democratic competition. Several notable Democrats, including California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, have shown interest in the race but have signaled they would step aside if Harris decides to run.
For Republicans, however, Harris’ potential candidacy might be a golden opportunity. Conservative figures such as Richard Grenell, a longtime Trump ally, have suggested that Harris comes with significant baggage, making her vulnerable in a general election. Grenell, currently serving as U.S. envoy for special missions, hinted that this could be the moment when a Republican finally has a real shot at winning the Governor’s mansion in California. Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and former Fox News host Steve Hilton are also considering GOP bids for the 2026 race.
California’s unique election system, where the top two finishers in the primary, regardless of party, move to the general election, means that a strong Republican candidate could make it into the final round. With nearly two decades since a Republican last won statewide office in California, conservatives are hoping that Harris’ vulnerabilities could be their ticket to breaking the Democratic hold on the state. The 2026 race for Governor is shaping up to be one of the most pivotal in the state’s history, with both parties watching closely.