TL;DR
- Kamala Harris confirms she’s not running for California governor in 2026
- Says she’s focused on national political work and progressive advocacy
- Urges Democrats to embrace fresh ideas amid political “crisis”
- Leaves the crowded Democratic race wide open
- LGBTQ supporters eye remaining candidates’ commitment to equality
Kamala Passes the Torch—California’s Governor Race Just Got Wilder
Kamala Harris has officially taken herself out of the running for California’s 2026 gubernatorial race, putting months of whispers and wishful thinking to rest. The former Vice President and senator issued a firm statement saying she’s staying out of Sacramento politics—for now.
“I love this state, its people, and its promise. It is my home,” Harris said in a statement. “But after deep reflection, I’ve decided that I will not run for Governor in this election.”
That sigh of disappointment you heard? Likely from Democratic loyalists and LGBTQ+ voters who admired Harris for her long-standing support for civil rights, including her push for marriage equality back in her AG days. While she’s stepping out of the electoral spotlight, she made it crystal clear she’s not retiring from the fight.
“For now, my leadership—and public service—will not be in elected office,” she added, hinting that her next chapter may be more behind-the-scenes power-broker than candidate-in-chief. “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.”
No Kamala, No Clarity
Harris’ choice to bow out leaves a power vacuum in the governor’s race—and a bunch of ambitious Democrats scrambling to fill it. Names already in the mix include California Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra, and former State Senate President Toni Atkins, who is openly lesbian and a strong ally to the LGBTQ+ community. Also on the ballot: pro-choice firebrand and equality advocate Katie Porter.
Before today’s news, Harris was polling at a comfy 24%—more than double her nearest rival. But nearly 40% of voters were still undecided. That uncertainty now becomes political gold for remaining candidates, especially those courting LGBTQ+ voters in a state where queer rights are more than just a checkbox issue.
Still Loud, Still Proud
Though she’s out of the 2026 race, Harris isn’t going quiet. In her statement, she called the current moment a “crisis,” urging her party to “welcome new methods and fresh thinking—committed to our same values and principles, but not bound by the same playbook.”
That’s political speak for: the old guard is over, let’s mix it up. For queer Americans, especially those in California, Harris’ continued presence in the national scene is a comfort. Her legal record and advocacy have long included vocal support for the LGBTQ+ community, even as some newer names have wavered in their stances.
“We must recognize that our politics, our government, and our institutions have too often failed the American people,” Harris said. “In the United States of America, power must lie with the people.”
While some activists hoped she’d use her clout to guide California’s future directly, there’s something deeply Kamala about stepping aside and amplifying others. Her absence in the race means California’s LGBTQ+ community will need to watch closely—because with rights under threat nationwide, allies matter now more than ever.
Harris may be stepping back from the ballot, but her impact isn’t going anywhere. In fact, it may just be getting started.