Former Vice President Kamala Harris announced Wednesday she will not run for California governor next year, leaving open the possibility of a third White House bid in 2028.
“Over the past six months, I have reflected deeply on this moment in our nation’s history and how best to continue fighting for the American people and advancing the values I hold dear,” Harris said in a statement from her office.
“I seriously considered asking the people of California for the privilege to serve as their governor. I love this state, its people and its promise. It is my home. But after careful reflection, I’ve decided not to run for governor in this election,” she added.
Harris’s decision extends the political guessing game that began after her loss to Donald Trump in last year’s presidential election. Following the defeat, she spent months privately weighing whether to pursue the governor’s office, launch another presidential campaign or step back from electoral politics altogether.
She has not ruled out another run for president after unsuccessful bids in 2020 and 2024. It is not known when she will make that decision.
