Kamala Harris announces she will not run for California governor

Former Vice President Kamala Harris on Wednesday announced that she will not run for California governor next year, ending months of speculation.

The decision comes amid questions about her political future after she lost the 2024 presidential election to President Donald Trump. Harris previously stated that she would reach a decision on governor this summer.

“In recent months, I have given serious thought to asking the people of California for the privilege to serve as their governor,” Harris said in a statement, according to Politico. “I love this state, its people, and its promise. It is my home. But after deep reflection, I’ve decided that I will not run for Governor in this election.

“I have extraordinary admiration and respect for those who dedicate their lives to public service – service to their communities and to our nation,” she continued. “At the same time, we must recognize that our politics, our government, and our institutions have too often failed the American people, culminating in this moment of crisis. As we look ahead, we must be willing to pursue change through new methods and fresh thinking — committed to our same values and principles, but not bound by the same playbook.”

Harris did not state whether she intends to run for president in 2028, but said she will be spending time listening to voters and helping get other Democrats elected. 

The former vice president added that she will share "more details" about her future plans in the coming months.

Harris' potential entrance into the crowded Democratic race has greatly loomed over candidates, with some expected to drop out if she joined the fray. But former California Rep. Katie Porter and former U.S. Health Secretary Xavier Becerra have stated they would remain in the race even with Harris.

Democratic contenders have also pushed Harris to make her decision quickly with the primary less than a year away. 

The decision comes despite polling indicating the former vice president was leading in the Democratic primary. If she won the primary, she would also likely win the general election because of the state's liberal base. 

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.