What If Kamala Harris Ran for Governor of California? A Political Power Move or a Risky Gamble?
The political landscape in America is constantly shifting, with speculation often driving the headlines just as much as facts. One such hypothetical that’s started to spark conversation in political circles is the idea of Vice President Kamala Harris running for governor of California.
Would it be a comeback? A step down? A strategic recalibration? Or would it be a bold, potentially game-changing move for the Golden State?
No matter where you stand politically, the possibility of Kamala Harris making a run for California’s highest state office is intriguing — and worth unpacking.
Kamala Harris: A California Native With Deep Political Roots
First, let’s talk background. Kamala Harris isn’t just a national political figure — she’s a California-born, California-bred leader.
Before she made her way to the national stage, she was the District Attorney of San Francisco, then the Attorney General of California, and later served as a U.S. Senator for the state. She has a deep and longstanding relationship with California’s Democratic political machine, its institutions, and its diverse voter base.
Running for governor wouldn’t be foreign territory — it would be a return home. In many ways, it would make sense.
A Strategic Step Back — Or Forward?
For some, the idea of a sitting (or former) Vice President running for governor might seem like a step down. Traditionally, the path moves in the other direction: local to state, then to national.
But American politics is anything but traditional these days. The role of a state governor — especially in a state as massive and influential as California — can often be just as powerful (and more action-oriented) than a national post that is largely ceremonial or constrained by bureaucracy.
Running California means managing a budget larger than most countries, overseeing issues like climate policy, immigration, tech regulation, housing, and homelessness — all at a time when the state is both admired and criticized for its progressive agenda.
Kamala, as governor, would have real executive power, and the ability to shape policy directly. Some might argue she’d be more effective there than as VP.
Public Perception: Love Her or Leave Her
The public’s view of Kamala Harris has always been mixed — and that’s no different in her home state. Her approval ratings have fluctuated nationally, and even in California, opinions range widely.
Supporters see her as a trailblazer, a highly educated and accomplished woman of color who broke barriers and speaks to the lived experiences of many Californians.
Critics argue that she has often lacked clarity in messaging, and point to her tenure as California’s Attorney General, where her record on criminal justice left some progressives disillusioned.
If she were to run for governor, expect these narratives to resurface and be reexamined — not just her national tenure as VP, but her entire California record.
The State of California: Ready for Kamala?
Let’s be real: California is a Democratic stronghold, but that doesn’t mean it’s politically homogenous. The state contains a mix of progressive activists, working-class centrists, and even conservative-leaning regions in rural and inland areas.
A Kamala Harris gubernatorial campaign would need to thread the needle between the progressive wing of the party — who’ve rallied behind figures like Bernie Sanders and AOC — and the more centrist establishment that propelled Joe Biden and Gavin Newsom.
Would she face resistance from the left? Quite possibly.
But would she energize women, people of color, and moderate Democrats who want a recognizable leader with national experience? Absolutely.
What Would a Kamala Governorship Look Like?
If Kamala Harris were to run — and win — the governorship, her administration would likely be progressive, but with a pragmatic edge. Here’s what we might expect:
- Criminal Justice Reform with Guardrails: Given the criticism of “soft-on-crime” policies, Harris might take a more moderate approach that blends reform with enforcement.
- Climate Leadership: She has long supported green energy and environmental policy. Expect aggressive clean energy goals and carbon neutrality efforts.
- Housing and Homelessness: This is California’s greatest crisis. Harris could bring in federal knowledge and pressure local governments to act faster and more effectively.
- Education and Equity: Harris has spoken about education access her entire career. She may push for increased state funding for public schools and universities, especially in underserved communities.
- Tech and Regulation: Given California’s position as a global tech hub, she may attempt to balance innovation with ethical oversight — especially around AI, privacy, and labor.
Who Would She Be Up Against?
California politics are rarely short of ambition. Potential Democratic challengers could include Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and even former L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti.
On the Republican side? While the GOP has had trouble gaining traction statewide, a high-profile candidate (think: a celebrity, a business mogul, or a moderate) could still put up a fight — especially if Democrats split the vote.
Could This Be a Political Reboot?
Let’s also talk about the elephant in the room: Kamala Harris’s future beyond the vice presidency. If Joe Biden doesn’t run again in 2028 — or if the party looks to pivot — she’ll be one of the names in the mix for the top job.
But if her approval ratings don’t improve, a stint as California governor could serve as a political reboot, offering her the chance to lead decisively and build a stronger base for a future presidential bid.
Governors often become presidents. Ask Ronald Reagan. Ask Bill Clinton. Ask George W. Bush. Executive experience matters.
Final Thoughts: Would It Work? Would It Matter?
So, how would I feel if Kamala Harris ran for governor of California?
Honestly? It would be bold, strategic, and fascinating to watch.
It would signal that Harris still wants to lead — not just as a symbolic figure, but as a hands-on executive.
It would also give California the chance to have a nationally recognized leader at the helm during a time of great transition.
Whether you love Kamala Harris or not, her running for governor would shake up California politics in a big way — and maybe, just maybe, it could set the stage for a whole new chapter in her political career.
