A potential political showdown looms in California as reality TV star and former Olympian Caitlyn Jenner signals interest in running for governor against Vice President Kamala Harris.
According to Daily Mail, Jenner has publicly declared she would "destroy" Harris if they both end up running for California governor in 2026, as the vice president reportedly considers her next political move following her presidential election defeat.
The gubernatorial seat will become available when current Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom reaches his term limit in 2026.
Harris, who suffered a significant loss in the presidential election, is reportedly keeping her options open for future political endeavors, including a potential run for California governor.
Jenner, a vocal supporter of President-elect Trump, has been actively hinting at her political aspirations on social media. The 75-year-old Republican previously attempted to secure the governor's position during the 2021 recall election against Newsom but received only one percent of the vote.
Despite her previous unsuccessful bid, Jenner remains optimistic about her chances in 2026. She recently posted on X, formerly known as Twitter:
Should we do it again? Have been getting a lot of calls with a lot of strong opinions. Newscum is out in 2026.
The transgender former athlete has maintained strong ties with Trump, proudly voting for him in the 2024 election despite his campaign rhetoric regarding transgender issues.
While Jenner expresses confidence in her ability to defeat Harris, political analysts note the significant hurdles any Republican candidate faces in the predominantly Democratic state. Harris demonstrated her strong support in California during the presidential election, securing more than 58 percent of the vote compared to Trump's 38 percent.
However, Republicans have shown some progress in the state, as evidenced by the narrowing margin compared to the 2020 election when Biden won California with more than 63 percent of the vote. Jenner has acknowledged this shift, pointing to the state's increasingly red-leaning tendencies in recent elections.
The political climate in California remains complex, with Harris's team maintaining strategic silence about her future plans. Political insiders suggest the vice president's advisers have been instructed to keep all options viable for her post-vice presidential career.
The potential face-off between Harris and Jenner would mark a significant moment in California politics, bringing together two high-profile figures with contrasting political ideologies and backgrounds. While Harris brings extensive political experience as a former senator and vice president, Jenner offers celebrity appeal and business acumen.
The upcoming gubernatorial race could reshape California's political landscape, regardless of whether both Harris and Jenner ultimately decide to run. With Newsom's term ending in 2026, the state faces important decisions about its future leadership and political direction.
The competition for California's top executive position continues to evolve, with both potential candidates positioning themselves for what could become one of the most-watched gubernatorial races in state history. The outcome could have significant implications for state and national politics, particularly as California maintains its position as a crucial political battleground.
