Staff Reports
CNN has gathered some intriguing whispers from behind the curtain of the Harris administration, and it seems that Vice President Kamala Harris is being nudged towards a run for governor of California once her stint as VP wraps up in January. It’s almost like watching a game of political chess where everyone knows the vice president is out of her league yet keeps insisting she’s a future grandmaster.
Advisors close to Harris have noted a curious uptick in her favorability ratings—this after having previously achieved the rather dubious distinction of being the most unpopular vice president in American history. With Biden’s campaign folding like a house of cards last summer, Harris managed to scrape together a few positive polling points. It’s a classic case of being the tallest dwarf in the room. One might wonder if the rising numbers reflect genuine support or simply a collective sigh of relief that she won’t be the one making decisions at the helm.
🚨Democrats are stuck with her. Kamala Harris is planning to either run for Governor of California in 2026 or President again in 2028:
“Kamala Harris and her team do not want her final official act ever to be certifying Donald Trump’s win over her—four years after January 6th.” pic.twitter.com/jIPM7kKvHl
— Steve Cortes (@CortesSteve) December 15, 2024
The Harris campaign, despite being an exercise in financial mismanagement, did manage to pull in over one billion dollars during the 2024 season. Unfortunately, they also ended up in a financial pit, with advisors pointing fingers at former Obama aides for decisions that make one’s head spin. But never fear! The cry of “run for governor!” rings out from loyal aides who are either desperately clinging to a sinking ship or genuinely believe that California voters are thirsty for more of her style of leadership.
When looking to the future, Harris’ advisors appear to be as divided as her party. The debate boils down to whether she will make a grand return to presidential aspirations or stick to the cushy confines of the governor’s mansion. Those strategizing on her behalf seem to think that running for governor would be a symbolic “capstone,” while others suggest it could be akin to taking a hard fall off a political cliff, jeopardizing her previously articulated 2028 dreams.
If the rumor mill holds true and Harris decides to court California voters, she’ll need to announce her candidacy before summer 2025 to build adequate momentum. Her supporters are also making it clear that should she enter the race, several potential competitors might just back off. It’s a sign of desperation on one hand, or an acknowledgment of her sheer gravitational pull within the chaotic realm of California politics on the other.
While the chess pieces are moving behind the scenes, the uncertainty of her next steps leaves many wondering not just about her future position but also about the future of Democratic leadership in a state that sometimes feels like it’s living in its own reality show. Harris’ next move may well reveal whether she’s a player in the game or just a spectator watching on from the sidelines.
