Report Details Harris Plans After January
As the dust settles after her loss in the 2024 presidential race, Vice President Kamala Harris appears to be keeping her political ambitions alive.
According to POLITICO, Harris is actively exploring her options for a return to public office, whether that be in the form of a gubernatorial bid in California in 2026 or a second shot at the presidency in 2028. Her message to advisors and allies is clear: she’s not stepping back from the political arena.
Harris’s rise to the Democratic nomination this year was itself a dramatic turn. Following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal after a disastrous debate performance against Donald Trump, Harris stepped in as the party’s standard-bearer.
Despite a spirited campaign, Trump secured a decisive victory, flipping battleground states, making inroads with key demographics like young voters and minorities, and cementing his hold over the working class. The defeat marked the end of a challenging election cycle for Democrats, leaving Harris to reevaluate her next move.
Among her options is a potential run for governor of California in 2026. Harris’s deep roots in the state, where she served as attorney general and U.S. senator, give her a natural home-field advantage.
Polling suggests she’d be a strong contender in the race to replace Governor Gavin Newsom, who will be term-limited. However, the field is already shaping up to be competitive, with Lt. Governor Eleni Kounalakis and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa announcing campaigns.
Adding spice to the mix, Caitlyn Jenner has hinted at another GOP run for governor, taking aim at Harris with a pointed remark on social media: “If I ran, and it was ultimately against Harris, I would destroy her.” While Jenner’s confidence may grab headlines, California’s blue-leaning electorate presents significant hurdles for any Republican challenger.
Harris’s long-term ambitions are also clear. A 2028 presidential bid remains on the table, and her immediate post-election plans reflect an effort to preserve her political relevance. Advisers have suggested she establish an entity to facilitate travel, speeches, and networking—a strategy to keep her in the public eye while exploring future opportunities. This approach would allow Harris to build on her existing base of support while recalibrating after the bruising 2024 loss.
For Harris, the challenge lies in navigating the Democratic Party’s shifting landscape. With figures like Gavin Newsom also eyeing the White House in 2028, competition within the party could be fierce. Additionally, Harris will need to address criticisms from her time as vice president and the campaign trail, including her struggles to connect with key voter blocs that turned toward Trump in 2024.