How Do Voters Really Feel About a Potential Harris Governorship?

Kamala Harris’s potential gubernatorial candidacy in California stirs diverse reactions among voters and political insiders.

Key Insights

A Politico and UC Berkeley Citrin Center poll shows mixed reactions to Kamala Harris potentially running for California governor.
36% of California “influencers” feel indifferent about Harris’ gubernatorial bid.
Among registered Democratic voters, 33% feel “joyful” and 41% “mostly excited” about Harris running.
Registered Republican voters mostly feel “irritated” or “outraged” at the prospect of Harris running.

Mixed Sentiments Among Californians

Kamala Harris’s potential candidacy for governor of California has sparked varied reactions. A recent survey by Politico and UC Berkeley’s Citrin Center highlights that while 36% of policy insiders express indifference, only 4% feel outright outraged. On the contrary, a third of registered voters display heightened enthusiasm toward Harris, though some demographic segments, particularly Asian American and Latino voters, have shown reluctance.

“It’s almost a surprising lack of enthusiasm from Latinos,” remarked Jack Citrin. This reflects the complex political landscape of California regarding Harris’s potential political journey.

In the backdrop of the 2024 presidential elections, where Harris was defeated by Donald Trump, she continues to maintain a prominent role in politics. While she has limited her public appearances post-election, the survey conducted among 1,025 California voters and 718 influencers indicates interest in her return to politics, potentially aiming for the 2028 presidential race.

The Influencers’ Perspective

36% of policy influencers in California remain indifferent towards Harris’s potential gubernatorial candidacy. This sentiment contrasts with 33% of registered Democratic voters who feel “joyful” and 41% who are “mostly excited” at the prospect of her candidacy. These figures hint at a complex political dynamic in California, challenging Harris’s position as a key Democratic figure.

The Democratic excitement is contrasted by Republican opposition, where sentiments of being “irritated” or “outraged” prevail. These mixed reactions highlight the ideological divides that could play a significant role in shaping Harris’s political strategy should she decide to run for governor.

California voters ‘indifferent’ over potential Kamala Harris run for governor: ‘Surprising lack of enthusiasm’ https://t.co/EmyYOS02SW pic.twitter.com/Buc8Ktrmvt

— New York Post (@nypost) April 15, 2025

Harris’s Uncertain Path Ahead

Harris has not yet announced her decision on running for governor in 2026, but intends to do so by late summer. Her potential candidacy comes amidst shifting political dynamics, with notable figures like Xavier Becerra and Katie Porter also being considered as possible candidates for the gubernatorial race. Harris’s acknowledgment of the shifting loyalties within demographic groups, especially Latinos who are showing increased support for Trump, will be crucial if she decides to pursue the governorship.

Despite not declaring her candidacy, Harris remains an active presence in the politico-cultural fabric of the Democratic Party, expressing opposition towards current political strategies and continuing her political engagements, potentially eyeing another presidential bid in 2028.