California Attorney General Bonta Backs Kamala Harris for 2026 Gubernatorial Run

In a recent interview, California Attorney General Rob Bonta expressed strong support for former Vice President Kamala Harris, should she decide to run for governor of California in 2026. Bonta praised Harris, calling her a candidate capable of clearing the field in a potential gubernatorial race.

Bonta to Seek Re-election

Bonta, who has held the position of California attorney general since 2021, clarified that he plans to seek re-election next year. This decision dispels rumors about his intentions for a gubernatorial campaign. His focus, he stated, is firmly on continuing his current role.

Endorsement of Harris

During his interview with Politico, Bonta stated, “Kamala Harris would be a great governor. I would support her if she ran. I’ve always supported her in everything she’s done. She would be field-clearing.” Although Bonta confirmed his admiration for Harris, he also mentioned that he had not yet discussed a potential run with her directly.

Speculation Surrounds Harris’ Future

Since losing the recent election to President Donald Trump, speculation has swirled regarding Harris’ next political move. While some analysts believe she might attempt to run for governor, others consider the possibility of her vying for the presidency again in 2028.

Impact of Term Limits

With current Governor Gavin Newsom being term-limited, the landscape for California’s gubernatorial race is shifting. Newsom’s departure from the race opens up opportunities for other candidates, including Harris, to make a significant impact.

Current Candidates for Governor

The Democratic primary field is already crowded, with over half a dozen candidates vying for the governor’s seat. Among them is Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, a known ally of Harris, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. Additionally, former Representative Katie Porter, who unsuccessfully competed for a Senate nomination last year, has shown interest in the gubernatorial race.

Xavier Becerra: Another Possible Contender

Former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra is also seen as a potential candidate. Becerra previously served in Congress and as California attorney general, bringing significant political experience to the table.

Political Signals from Harris

Despite the speculation surrounding her political ambitions, insiders close to Harris have suggested that no concrete decisions have been made yet regarding her future. However, in a recent video message to the Democratic National Committee, Harris pledged her commitment to the party, stating her intention to support it “every step of the way.” This message could indicate that she indeed has future political aspirations.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Harris and California’s Democrats

As the political landscape in California evolves, Harris remains a prominent figure. With Attorney General Bonta’s endorsement and a crowded field of Democratic candidates preparing to contend for the governorship, the 2026 election promises to be a battleground for significant political ambitions. The ongoing developments suggest that Harris’s next moves will be closely watched, not just by her supporters, but by the entire nation.