"I have been considering asking Californians for the honor of serving them as governor. I love California. I love the people of California. I love the promise of California. This is my home. However, after much consideration, I have decided not to run for governor in this election cycle," former US vice president Kamala Harris, a Democrat, said on 30/7.

Sources say Harris made this decision a month ago after meeting with close advisors to discuss her options: not running for governor, preparing for a 2028 presidential run, or retiring from politics.

Her decision not to run for California governor fuels speculation about her next move after her loss to Republican Donald Trump in November 2024.

Former vice president Kamala Harris speaks in Pasadena, California on 22/2. Photo: Reuters

Former vice president Kamala Harris speaks in Pasadena, California on 22/2. Photo: Reuters

Harris, born in October 1964 in Oakland, served as San Francisco district attorney and then as California attorney general. In 2015, she decided against running for California governor, believing the Senate was a better fit for her career goals. She was elected senator in 2016, serving until Joe Biden chose her as his running mate in 2020. She became the first female vice president.

At 60, Harris is still young enough for another presidential run, a possibility she hasn't dismissed. However, for a party seeking to refresh its image and regain the trust of working-class voters after a defeat, she might not be seen as a "fresh face."

Early 2028 primary polls place Harris at or near the top. But a presidential bid would expose her to criticism and questions about the 2024 loss. Former Los Angeles mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, a California gubernatorial candidate, previously attacked Harris for "covering up" Biden's "cognitive decline."

"Democrats worry that if she runs again, the 2028 election could become a post-mortem of 2024," said Roger Wolfson, a Hollywood screenwriter and former Democratic speechwriter.

Harris would also face competition from those she vetted as potential running mates in 2024, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. They are unlikely to defer to her. California Governor Gavin Newsom has shown signs of preparing for a national campaign for months.

Another option for Harris is retirement. Sources say the former vice president has recently felt she could have the greatest impact from "outside the system."

"She's been in public service for 22 consecutive years, serving the public since law school," Democratic strategist Sean Clegg, a longtime Harris advisor, told AP. "She’s now more excited about making change from the outside."

Harris wants to support Democrats in the 2026 midterm elections. Among her considered efforts are launching a political action committee to raise funds, establishing a non-profit focused on communications and empowering young voters, and touring southern states to connect with voters.

According to a friend, running for governor would require focusing on state legislative issues, while Harris needs to be involved in national discussions for a potential return to the presidential race.

"She doesn't necessarily have to decide whether to run or not right now, and she can still demonstrate leadership," the friend told CNN.

Harris is reportedly writing a book and is expected to announce details soon. This project would allow her to organize a book tour and maintain a public presence.

Sources suggest she might decide on a presidential run before announcing the book tour.

Vice president Harris in Washington in November 2024. Photo: AP

Vice president Harris in Washington in November 2024. Photo: AP

Laphonza Butler, a former senator close to Harris, cautioned against speculating about Harris's political future based on her decision not to run for California governor.

"I think for her, every option is on the table," Butler said.

Harris also left the door open in her 30/7 announcement.

"My leadership and service to the people is not tied to any elected office," Harris stated. "I look forward to continuing to connect with Americans across the country, to listen and to lift up the voices of Democrats across our nation in the relentless fight ahead. And I will share more about my own plans in the coming weeks and months."

Nhu Tam (According to AP, Washington Post, Reuters)