Kamala Harris’ potential return to California politics
After losing the 2024 presidential election to Trump, Kamala Harris has moved back to California. With Governor Gavin Newsom being term-limited in 2026, speculation is growing about her possible candidacy. According to internal polling reported by The Hollywood Reporter (THR), Harris would be the frontrunner in a California governor’s race. Despite her national defeat, she remains widely popular in the state.
Other contenders are also eyeing the race. Billionaire Rick Caruso, who lost the 2022 Los Angeles mayoral election to Karen Bass despite spending $104 million of his own funds, is seen as a potential challenger. However, political experts suggest that Harris would have a significant advantage due to her strong name recognition and past electoral success in California.
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Trump’s strategy to stop Harris
Richard Grenell, a key Trump ally and former acting Director of National Intelligence, is expected to play a crucial role in countering Harris if she runs. Grenell has experience in California politics, having worked as a spokesman for former San Diego Mayor Susan Golding and advising local campaigns. His connections could help the Republican Party put up a strong fight.The political landscape in California has also shifted slightly. The handling of the Los Angeles wildfires in January has hurt the reputation of state Democrats, including Mayor Karen Bass. This has opened the door for challengers like Caruso and other Trump-backed candidates to gain traction.
Kamala Harris’ 2028 Presidential prospects
While Harris has not officially announced her candidacy for governor, Democratic insiders expect her to run for president again in 2028. A January poll from McLaughlin & Associates showed Harris leading the Democratic primary race with 33%, ahead of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg at 9% and Governor Gavin Newsom at 7%.
If Harris wins the California governorship, it could strengthen her position for a 2028 presidential run, following a path similar to Richard Nixon. Nixon lost the 1960 presidential election to John F. Kennedy but later ran for governor of California in 1962 before successfully winning the presidency in 1968.
Will Kamala Harris run for California Governor?
Despite her strong polling numbers, Harris faces a difficult decision. Running for governor could be seen as a political step backward after serving as vice president. However, it could also provide a platform for her to rebuild support for a future presidential run.
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For now, Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, have been active in California, visiting firefighters and assisting wildfire evacuees after leaving the vice presidency in January. As 2026 approaches, all eyes will be on her next move—and how Trump’s camp will respond.
FAQs:
Will Kamala Harris run for California governor in 2026?
She hasn’t announced yet, but she is seen as the top contender.
What is Donald Trump’s plan against Kamala Harris?
Trump may back a strong Republican challenger, possibly Richard Grenell.
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