Kamala Harris is considering a run for governor of California, and this news has sparked excitement among some Republicans. The state hasn’t elected a Republican governor since 2007, and many in the GOP believe Harris could be a weak candidate if she decides to enter the race.
Reports suggest that Harris is weighing her options, which include a gubernatorial bid, a third presidential run, or stepping away from elected office altogether. Some Republican figures have expressed delight at the possibility of her candidacy. Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco stated that Harris embodies what many Californians are frustrated with, citing her approach to crime and her focus on national issues over local concerns.
Republican consultant Dave Gilliard pointed out that Harris’s potential candidacy could attract donors who are looking for an opportunity to challenge the Democratic stronghold in California. He noted that funding is a major hurdle for Republicans, as many donors are skeptical about the chances of a Republican winning statewide.
Kevin Madden, another Republican consultant, acknowledged that while Harris has an impressive resume, many candidates with similar backgrounds have lost elections. He emphasized that she lacks momentum at this time.
Conservative commentator Steve Hilton believes that the 2026 election will favor candidates who represent change, and he thinks Harris does not fit that description. GOP consultant Kevin Spillane warned that even if Harris were to win, it could be a hollow victory, suggesting that she might face significant challenges in her governorship.
Despite the GOP’s hopes, California remains a deeply Democratic state. In the 2024 election, 59% of voters chose Harris over Donald Trump, although she did not perform as strongly as President Biden did in the previous election. Trump made gains in some traditionally Democratic areas, which could signal shifting dynamics in the state’s political landscape.
As the political landscape evolves, all eyes will be on Harris and her decision about whether to run for governor, as it could have significant implications for both parties in California.