Can Trump do it?
Richard Grenell Hints at Gubernatorial Run After Talking to President Trump
California may be headed for its most dramatic political shake-up in decades — and a trusted Trump insider could be the man leading the charge.
Richard Grenell, President Trump’s former Acting Director of National Intelligence and current envoy for special diplomatic missions, confirmed he recently spoke with the president about a possible run for California governor.
“I talked to the president yesterday,” Grenell told Politico, referencing growing unrest in the state tied to immigration protests and Democrat leadership failures.
While he stopped short of officially declaring his candidacy, Grenell made one thing clear: if former Vice President Kamala Harris joins the race, his decision could change.
“If Kamala runs, a lot of Republicans — including myself — will need to seriously consider it,” Grenell said. “I’m not running right now, but her entry would change the dynamics.”
Democrats in Disarray: Fires, Riots, and Political Chaos
California is facing escalating crises — from destructive wildfires to violent protests erupting across Los Angeles. Many voters blame Democrat leaders like Governor Gavin Newsom for the breakdown in law and order, weak border enforcement, and sky-high cost of living.
The Democrat primary is already overcrowded, with left-leaning candidates including:
- Xavier Becerra – former Health and Human Services Secretary
- Katie Porter – progressive former congresswoman
- Eleni Kounalakis – current Lieutenant Governor
Kamala Harris hasn’t announced a bid yet, but early polling gives her a clear lead. A recent Emerson College/Inside California Politics survey shows Harris with 31%, while Porter trails far behind at just 8%.
Republican Momentum Growing: Grenell, Hilton, Bianco in the Spotlight
If Grenell steps in, he’ll be one of the highest-profile Republicans in the race. Other strong conservative contenders already exploring a run include:
- Steve Hilton – Fox News contributor and populist policy analyst
- Sheriff Chad Bianco – a law-and-order voice with strong grassroots appeal
Republicans face an uphill battle in deep-blue California, but growing frustration among voters — especially older, tax-paying residents — is shifting the political climate.
Could Trump’s Influence Flip California?
With President Trump’s blessing and national spotlight, Grenell could turn this race into a referendum on Democrat failure and conservative restoration. The Trump coalition — older voters, veterans, business owners, and suburban parents — is energized and watching closely.
Stay tuned. California’s next chapter may be written by a Trump Republican ready to bring back common sense and strength.