Former Vice President Kamala Harris has reportedly set an end-of-summer deadline to decide whether she will enter the race for governor of California, a decision that could significantly shake up the state’s political field. According to sources, Harris has been vocal about her commitment to remaining politically active, telling supporters at private gatherings and through phone calls, “I am staying in this fight.” This comes as she weighs her future following her unsuccessful presidential bid and considers her next steps on the national and state political stage.
The timing of her potential announcement was revealed during a pre-Oscars event, where she reportedly confirmed to an attendee that her decision would come before the summer’s end. If Harris enters the race and wins, it could complicate the possibility of a 2028 presidential campaign, despite current polls showing her as a frontrunner in the California gubernatorial primary. Her strong national recognition and established support base have already made her a formidable figure in the state’s political landscape.
Harris has maintained an active political operation through her newly formed organization, Pioneer49, keeping several of her top aides on board. This sustained infrastructure suggests serious preparation for a potential gubernatorial run. Despite earlier reports of a high turnover rate among her vice-presidential staff, the loyalty of her current team signals a renewed commitment and strategic focus. This stability could be crucial as she considers stepping into California’s gubernatorial race.
The mere possibility of Harris entering the race has already reshaped the Democratic primary field. Prominent figures like State Attorney General Rob Bonta have opted to drop their exploratory efforts for the governor’s office, instead seeking reelection in their current roles. Bonta has openly expressed his support for Harris, emphasizing her widespread recognition and strong campaign capabilities, which many believe would effectively clear the Democratic field should she officially announce her candidacy.
As the Democratic contenders adjust to Harris’s potential bid, the Republican field remains relatively sparse. Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco currently stands out as the leading GOP candidate, known for his strong stance on crime despite facing challenges like staffing shortages and state-level policing restrictions. Meanwhile, Harris has been increasing her public visibility, attending high-profile events like the NAACP Image Awards and engaging in discussions on issues like artificial intelligence — moves that keep her firmly in the national political conversation while building momentum for a possible gubernatorial run.