Kamala Harris has dropped a surprise. She has ruled out a gubernatorial run in California. This announcement comes on the heels of deep contemplation and consideration of the opportunity since her departure from the White House in January. Harris’s announcement clears up for once and all her political future, which had been speculated upon for months.
Until recently, since returning to Los Angeles, Harris stayed pretty far under the radar. Her absence from the forefront of state politics coincided with significant events, including protests against the Trump administration’s immigration policies earlier this summer. Earlier this year, she made headlines by giving a stinging indictment of the Obama administration for forsaking core American values. She has been choosy about the times she chooses to publicly confront its actions.
Harris, 60, is the former attorney general of California and former U.S. senator. Her deep well of political experience and connections positioned her as a fierce candidate for the governor’s office. Early polling indicated Californians widely supported her ascension to replace the term-limited Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom. During her recent confirmation hearings, she did not provide many signs that she would be excited about piloting the state from Sacramento.
Harris reiterated her deep passion for public service as a driving force. She announced in her resignation that she will not seek elected office in the near term.
“For now, my leadership – and public service – will not be in elected office,” – Kamala Harris
Though he has withdrawn from a potential gubernatorial bid, Harris has not lost political power or influence, nor experience, by any stretch. She noted her intention to assist in electing Democrats across the nation and hinted at future plans for her political role.
“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,” – Kamala Harris
Harris’s surprise decision to withdraw from the governor’s race has drawn mixed reactions from political leaders and state party swells. Many prominent politicians commended her choice, viewing it as a testament to her ongoing commitment to serve at high levels of government.
Antonio Villaraigosa on the odds stacked against California, it will take serious experienced leadership to come out on top.
“We face critical challenges in California – and we need a proven problem solver to tackle our affordability crisis,” – Antonio Villaraigosa
Gavin Newsom cheered Harris’ appointment, thanking her for her service and friendship, and looking forward to her future endeavors.
“Grateful for her service and friendship – and looking forward to continuing the fight in whatever the future might hold for her,” – Gavin Newsom
Not all reactions were positive. In attacking Harris’s lukewarm political career, Kollin Crompton would have you believe it’s been ruined by the Trump administration.
“Kamala Harris’s political career is over thanks to President Trump,” – Kollin Crompton
Crompton voiced happiness that Harris has decided against running for governor.
“Americans across the country can sigh in relief that they won’t have to see or hear from Kamala Harris any longer.” – Kollin Crompton
In her recent commencement addresses, Harris stressed the importance of direct civic participation. She called on people to join in the work of making sure we protect the values of democracy.
“We must recognize that our politics, our government, and our institutions have too often failed the American people, culminating in this moment of crisis,” – Kamala Harris
This statement is a clear acknowledgement of political reality as she sees it, and of her hopes for a different kind of systemic change going forward. As she steps away from seeking office for now, Harris remains committed to advocating for freedom and fairness for all Americans.
“We, the People must use our power to fight for freedom, opportunity, fairness, and the dignity of all,” – Kamala Harris
With Harris no longer in the mix for the governorship, that takes one big player out of California’s volatile political landscape. This decision doesn’t rule out her ambitions for future public office. Her vow to stay engaged in politics suggests that she may still play an influential role in shaping the Democratic Party’s direction as it navigates challenges ahead.