‘Heartbreaking’ Kamala Harris Faces Uncertain Political Future as California Eyes 2026 Governor Race

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Former Vice President Kamala Harris is once again at the center of California’s political speculation, but recent polling suggests that excitement over a potential gubernatorial run in 2026 may be limited — at least among state political insiders.

A recent survey conducted by Politico in partnership with UC Berkeley’s Citrin Center polled a group of “policy influencers” across California — including lawmakers, staffers, and subscribers to key political newsletters.

The results? A majority expressed skepticism or indifference toward Harris stepping into the race to replace Governor Gavin Newsom, who is term-limited from seeking re-election.

According to the poll:

36% were indifferent about Harris running.

22% felt “mostly excited.”

20% were irritated.

4% felt outraged.

Interestingly, when the focus shifted to registered voters, particularly among Democrats and minority groups, the response was more favorable. Among Democratic voters:

41% said they would be “most excited.”

33% said they’d be “joyful.”

About 24% expressed indifference.

Among minority voters, 35% of respondents reported they’d feel joyful, and 38% said they’d be mostly excited if Harris decided to run.

However, some skepticism remained — particularly among Latino and Asian voters, with around 19% of each group reporting feelings of hopelessness or irritation over the idea.

Since her defeat in the 2024 presidential election to Donald Trump, Harris has maintained a relatively low public profile. Still, she has hinted that her political career is far from over.

“I’m not going anywhere,” Harris said during a recent speech at the Leading Women Defined summit, an event focused on Black women’s leadership.

While she stopped short of making an official announcement, her comments hinted at long-term plans.

Harris, who represented California in the U.S. Senate from 2017 to 2021, is widely viewed as a top contender if she enters the race.

In fact, early polling from Emerson College/Inside California Politics/The Hill shows her leading the Democratic primary field with nearly 60% support among likely voters.

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But she may face competition. Former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra has already launched his campaign, becoming one of the first major candidates to officially enter the race.

Political analyst Jack Citrin of UC Berkeley commented that voter responses reflect Harris’s current political positioning. “These people are not given to euphoria,” he said, adding that Harris is still navigating the aftermath of her presidential loss and carefully considering her next steps.

A formal decision on whether Harris will run for governor is expected by the end of the summer.

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