Former Vice President Kamala Harris has made the decision not to run for governor of California in the upcoming 2026 election, marking a significant shift in her political career. Harris, who previously served as a U.S. Senator from California, has been a prominent figure in the Democratic Party and has been considered a potential presidential candidate. Her withdrawal from the gubernatorial race has opened the door for other Democrats to vie for the position, with several prominent names already in the running.
One of the most notable developments following Harris’s decision is the withdrawal of Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, who has chosen to pursue a different role in state finance rather than continue her campaign for governor. Kounalakis, a longtime friend of Harris, is now looking to make an impact in California’s financial landscape. Her departure from the race has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising her decision to focus on economic issues, while others see it as a setback for the Democratic Party.
The gubernatorial race now features a number of high-profile candidates, including former Rep. Katie Porter, former HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. These individuals bring a wealth of experience and policy expertise to the race, and their presence is expected to shape the direction of California’s future governance. The primary election is set for June 2, 2026, and will likely be a key event in the state’s political calendar.
In addition to the changes in the gubernatorial race, Harris’s decision not to run has also raised questions about her potential future political aspirations, including the possibility of a run for the presidency in 2028. Her withdrawal from the governor’s race has allowed Democrats to focus on other candidates and strategies, while also leaving room for her to potentially re-enter the political arena in the future. The Democratic Party will now have to navigate the implications of her decision as they prepare for the 2026 election.
Meanwhile, the Republican side of the race is also shaping up, with candidates like Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco competing for a spot in the top-two open primary system. The lack of endorsements from Harris and Governor Gavin Newsom has further complicated the race, as both are still considered potential candidates for the 2028 presidential election. The outcome of the 2026 race will likely have significant implications for the state’s political landscape and the Democratic Party’s strategy for the future.