A new survey reveals shifting political dynamics in California as Vice President Kamala Harris faces speculation about her post-White House career plans.
According to Fox News, a recent University of California at Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies poll indicates that 46% of registered California voters would potentially support Harris in a 2026 gubernatorial bid.
The poll, conducted between October 22-29, shows a nearly even split among Golden State voters regarding Harris's potential candidacy, with 42% expressing unlikelihood to support her bid. These results emerge as current Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom approaches his term limit, creating an opening for new leadership in America's most populous state.
The gubernatorial race in California promises to draw significant national attention, particularly given the state's Democratic dominance. Democrats maintain a two-to-one advantage over Republicans in voter registration, and no Republican has secured the governor's office in nearly twenty years.
Harris brings substantial California political experience to any potential candidacy. Her career includes service as San Francisco District Attorney, California Attorney General, and U.S. Senator representing the state. She maintains strong ties to California, including a residence in West Los Angeles's Brentwood neighborhood.
The timing of the poll is particularly noteworthy, as it was conducted before Harris's defeat in the 2024 presidential election. Despite the national loss, Harris demonstrated continued strength in California, leading Trump by over 20 points with 87% of votes counted.
Former President Trump's campaign frequently targeted Harris during the 2024 presidential race, specifically criticizing her connection to California. He conducted campaign rallies in the state despite its reliable Democratic voting record in presidential elections spanning over three decades.
The political environment surrounding a potential Harris gubernatorial bid is already taking shape. Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, a longtime Harris ally, launched her campaign for governor more than a year ago, potentially setting up an interesting dynamic between the two politicians.
Harris's strong performance in California during the 2024 presidential election, securing the state's 54 electoral votes, suggests she maintains significant support among the state's voters. This could provide a foundation for a future gubernatorial campaign, should she choose to pursue it.
While speculation abounds regarding Harris's future plans after leaving office in January, she has maintained silence about her post-vice presidential aspirations. The timing of the California gubernatorial election in 2026 aligns with the end of her vice-presidential term.
The Berkeley IGS poll results suggest Harris would enter any potential gubernatorial race with a substantial base of support. Her extensive experience in California politics, combined with national exposure as vice president, could position her uniquely among potential candidates.
The role of California governor would represent a return to state-level executive leadership for Harris, though with significantly broader responsibilities than her previous position as attorney general.
The possibility of Vice President Harris running for California governor in 2026 represents a significant potential shift in state politics. The Berkeley IGS poll results indicate a divided but substantial potential base of support for such a candidacy. As Harris prepares to conclude her term as vice president, the question of her political future remains open. The 2026 California gubernatorial race, while still two years away, already shows signs of becoming a nationally significant political contest.
