Voters Reject Kamala Harris Again as 2026 California Governor Race Heats Up
Kamala Harris may be eyeing another shot at political power—but California voters aren’t buying it. Despite leading early polls in the 2026 gubernatorial race, Harris is far from a frontrunner. In fact, new data shows most voters are either undecided—or ready to back someone else.
Kamala’s Comeback? Voters Say “Not So Fast”
After losing decisively to President Donald Trump in 2024, former Vice President Kamala Harris is now testing the waters for a run at governor in her home state. But even in deep-blue California, the enthusiasm is missing.
According to a University of California Irvine poll, Harris leads with just 24% of support statewide—a number driven more by name recognition than actual voter excitement. Shockingly, 40% of Californians remain undecided, leaving the race wide open for challengers.
Weak Polling Numbers Reflect Democrat Disarray
Behind Harris sits real estate billionaire Rick Caruso at 9%, followed by far-left progressive Katie Porter at just 6%. Republican Chad Bianco, sheriff of Riverside County, ties with former LA Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa at 4%. A mix of other low-profile Democrats and Republicans barely register above 2%.
This fractured Democrat field signals trouble ahead. Harris remains one of the most recognizable names, but that doesn’t translate to broad support. Her favorability numbers are soft, and voters across the spectrum are still questioning her leadership.
Kamala Still Haunted by Her 2024 Loss to Trump
Many within the Democratic Party blame Harris for what they viewed as a “winnable” 2024 race against President Trump. Her failure to energize voters or define a clear message has followed her into 2025.
Even liberal pollsters admit her support is shaky. “She has a visibility advantage, not a popularity one,” said Jon Gould, director of the UCI-OC Poll. “Only 5% don’t know who she is—but that doesn’t mean they like what they see.”
Democrats Turn on Kamala Over Biden Health Scandal
The knives are already out. In a shocking accusation, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa claimed Harris was involved in a “systematic cover-up” of Joe Biden’s cognitive decline—a bombshell that continues to rock Democratic circles.
Voters are increasingly wondering: What did Kamala know, and when did she know it? For many, her silence on Biden’s mental health has been disqualifying.
Polls Show a Weak Base for a 2028 Presidential Bid Too
Harris may also be considering another run for president—but recent polling offers no comfort. A June 2025 Emerson College poll showed only 13% of Democratic voters supporting her for the 2028 primary. Even Pete Buttigieg polled higher.
A separate Morning Consult survey was slightly better for Harris, showing 34% support, but still far below what a true national frontrunner would need.
Kamala Stalls on Making a Decision
So far, Harris has remained vague. During a public appearance in wildfire-ravaged Los Angeles, she dodged the question: “My plans are to be in touch with the community,” she said—offering little clarity on her political future.
She has hinted at making a final decision by the end of summer, with the 2026 California gubernatorial primary scheduled for June 2, 2026.
Bottom Line: Kamala’s Political Star is Fading
Despite a built-in advantage in liberal California, Kamala Harris is far from a guaranteed winner. With weak polling, growing Democrat infighting, and a 2024 defeat still fresh in voters’ minds, her chances in 2026—and beyond—look dim.
For voters who believe in law and order, strong leadership, and transparency, Harris may once again prove unelectable.