Vice President Kamala Harris navigates her political future as confidential discussions with advisers reveal multiple possibilities for her next career move.
According to Axios, the Vice President is actively exploring various political options, including a potential run for California governor in 2026, where recent polls suggest she would have significant advantages over current candidates.
Harris, maintaining she is "staying in the fight," has been engaging in strategic discussions with her inner circle about her political trajectory. These conversations have covered multiple scenarios, from a gubernatorial campaign to a possible 2028 presidential bid.
The current field of gubernatorial candidates includes several prominent California politicians, each bringing a unique experience to the race. Former state Senate leader Toni Atkins, Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, and former state controller Betty Yee are among those who have already positioned themselves for the upcoming election.
Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and state schools superintendent Tony Thurmond have also joined the competition.
Recent polling data from the UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies indicates Harris would enter the race with stronger support than the existing candidates. This advantage stems from her high profile as Vice President and her deep roots in California politics.
The potential entry of outgoing Rep. Katie Porter adds another layer of complexity to the race. A USC poll has shown Porter could be a formidable contestant if she decides to participate in the gubernatorial campaign.
Former Harris aide Brian Brokaw shared his perspective on the Vice President's options:
Could she run for governor? Yes. Do I think she wants to run for governor? Probably not. Could she win? Definitely. Would she like the job? I don't know. Could she run for president again? Yes
The Vice President's immediate focus remains on her current role and responsibilities. Her team is actively working to redefine her position within the Democratic party as they prepare for the transition to a Trump presidency.
Harris faces several critical decisions in the coming months. She plans to discuss her political future with family members during the holiday season, while also fulfilling her vice presidential duties through January 20, when she will certify the presidential election results and attend Trump's inauguration.
The timing of Harris's decision carries significant weight for both state and national politics. As a Bay Area native, her potential return to California leadership would mark a notable shift in her political career trajectory.
Her performance as the Democratic nominee following President Biden's unexpected withdrawal from the race has influenced these considerations. The campaign resulted in losses in key battleground states that Biden had previously secured.
Vice President Kamala Harris stands at a crucial junction in her political career as she evaluates multiple opportunities following her term as Vice President. Her considerations include a potential 2026 California gubernatorial campaign, where polling data suggests she would have substantial support, as well as possible presidential ambitions for 2028. Her team continues to assess various political strategies while maintaining active communication with advisers and allies about future possibilities in both state and national politics.
