Kamala Harris Leads in California Governor Race Polls for 2026

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Kamala Harris, the former Vice President of the United States, is currently the favorite to win the 2026 California gubernatorial race, according to a recent poll from Emerson College. The poll found that Harris would garner 57% of the vote in a field that includes other notable candidates such as Katie Porter, Antonio Villaraigosa, and Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis. Although Harris has not yet announced her plans for 2026, Democratic strategist Steve Maviglio believes she would have a significant advantage over the other candidates who have already entered the race, citing her unbeaten record in California elections and her ability to mobilize support.

Following her loss to Donald Trump in the presidential race, Harris's next move remains unclear, but Maviglio notes that she will have to decide by the summer whether she will enter the race for governor. A former aide to Harris told The Hill that she will have "an army of people ready to support her" if she decides to run, citing her dedication to public service and her experience in various roles, including San Francisco district attorney and California attorney general. As candidates vie to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom, who cannot run again due to term limits, political analysts say Harris's decision could significantly impact the race, with Maviglio stating that "the race is on hold until she makes her decision."

The poll results and Harris's potential candidacy have significant implications for the other candidates in the race, who are struggling to raise money and secure endorsements due to the uncertainty surrounding Harris's decision. The situation has also had a ripple effect on other offices in the state, with Maviglio noting that it's "had an impact on all the other offices in the state, because they're sort of dominoes." As the summer deadline approaches, Harris will have to weigh her options carefully and consider the potential consequences of her decision, both for herself and for the other candidates in the race.

Here are some key points to consider about the California governor race and Harris's potential candidacy: * The Emerson College poll found that Harris would win 57% of the vote in a field that includes Katie Porter, Antonio Villaraigosa, and Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis * Harris has not yet announced her plans for 2026, but is expected to make a decision by the summer * Democratic strategist Steve Maviglio believes Harris would have a significant advantage over the other candidates due to her unbeaten record in California elections and her ability to mobilize support * Harris's decision could significantly impact the race, with Maviglio stating that "the race is on hold until she makes her decision" * The situation has also had a ripple effect on other offices in the state, with Maviglio noting that it's "had an impact on all the other offices in the state, because they're sort of dominoes"

The California governor race is likely to be highly competitive, with several candidates vying for the top spot. As the race heats up, it will be important to watch Harris's next move and see how it impacts the other candidates and the overall dynamics of the race. With her significant lead in the polls and her potential to mobilize support, Harris is certainly a candidate to watch in the coming months. As the summer deadline approaches, Harris will have to make a decision that will have significant implications for her own career and for the future of California politics.