LOS ANGELES – Former Vice President Kamala Harris announced on July 30, 2025, that she will not seek the governorship of California in the 2026 election. Her decision concludes months of speculation regarding her political future following the 2024 presidential election. This announcement opens up the field for other Democratic and Republican candidates vying to replace term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom.
In a statement, Harris indicated that her choice was made after deep reflection on her path for public service, stating, "for now, my leadership and public service will not be in elected office." News reports suggest that this decision may keep open the possibility of a third presidential bid in 2028. Her withdrawal from the race is expected to re-energize major donors and potential candidates who had been awaiting her decision.
The announcement comes amidst a social media post from Shiloh Marx, who tweeted: > "Breaking:🚨 Kamala is not running for governor because California elections will be fair." This tweet, posted by the author of the California Election Integrity Initiative, suggests a different rationale for Harris's decision.
Shiloh Marx is known as the founder and director of the California Election Integrity Initiative, an organization focused on "cleaning California Voter Rolls" and advocating for the removal of inactive and ineligible voters. Marx frequently posts updates on social media regarding voter roll maintenance, signaling his perspective on election fairness and integrity.
Regarding the fairness of California elections, official state bodies, including the California Secretary of State’s Office, consistently affirm their commitment to ensuring free, fair, safe, secure, accurate, and accessible elections. While groups like the Election Integrity Project California, Inc. have raised concerns and advocated for reforms such as voter ID laws, court rulings have upheld California's election laws and practices as meeting fundamental requirements of equal treatment and fairness.
Harris's decision to forgo the gubernatorial race now sets the stage for a potentially crowded and competitive primary in California. Political strategists anticipate that various prominent Democrats and Republicans will now fully commit to their campaigns, shaping the future political landscape of the state.