The race to succeed California Gov. Gavin Newsom next year just got a whole lot more interesting.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris announced Wednesday that she will not run for governor, despite polling that placed her as the frontrunner if she had decided to enter the race.
What she’s saying: Harris released a statement Wednesday saying she has reflected over the past six months on her future, adding that it has been an honor to serve California and the nation as a prosecutor, Attorney General, Senator and Vice President.
- “In recent months, I have given serious thought to 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 deep reflection, I’ve decided that I will not run for Governor in this election,” Harris said. “I have extraordinary admiration and respect for those who dedicate their lives to public service – service to their communities and to our nation. At the same time, we must recognize that our politics, our government, and our institutions have too often failed the American people, culminating in this moment of crisis.”
- Harris said there needs to be new methods and fresh thinking not bound by the same playbook.
- “For now, my leadership – and public service – will not be in elected office. I look forward to getting back out and listening to the American people, helping elect Democrats across the nation who will fight fearlessly, and sharing more details in the months ahead about my own plans,” Harris said. “In the United States of America, power must lie with the people. And We, the People must use our power to fight for freedom, opportunity, fairness, and the dignity of all. I will remain in that fight.”
State of the race: Previous polling earlier in the year placed Harris at the front of a crowded Democratic field to be Newsom’s successor, with Harris holding a substantial lead.
- That led to rumors that Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, who was the first candidate to jump into the race, would switch to the Treasurer race if Harris entered. Other candidates, such as Katie Porter, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra all signalled that they would compete against Harris if she ended up running.
What we’re watching: With the governorship out of the question, Harris is reportedly considering nonprofit work and increasing her fundraising work, according to NBC News.
- Harris is also reportedly set to hit the campaign trail to stump for other Democrats in the midterms.
