Top Trump official teases 2026 bid for California governor if Harris jumps in race

Richard Grenell, a key aide to President Donald Trump, has hinted at a potential bid for California governor in 2026 if former Vice President Kamala Harris also decides to run. Grenell, who currently serves as the U.S. envoy for special missions, made the comments during a press briefing at the Munich Security Conference in Germany.

Grenell believes that if Harris enters the race, she will face significant challenges due to her political baggage and the need to educate voters about her record. This, he argues, could create an opening for a Republican candidate to have a real shot at winning the governorship in the traditionally blue state of California.

Speculation has been rife about Harris’ political future since her defeat in the last presidential election. She has been rumored to be considering a run for governor in her home state or potentially another bid for the presidency in 2028. Harris has a long political career, having served as San Francisco district attorney, California attorney general, U.S. senator, and vice president.

While Harris has not made any official announcements about her future plans, there are already several Democratic candidates vying for the governorship. Among them are Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former Rep. Katie Porter, and former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. However, pundits suggest that Harris could easily clear the field if she decides to enter the race.

Grenell, who considered running for governor during the 2021 recall election, ultimately decided against it. He has served as ambassador to Germany and as acting director of national intelligence in Trump’s administration. Grenell has been actively involved in various diplomatic missions, including a recent trip to Venezuela that led to the release of hostages.

In addition to Grenell, other California Republicans are also considering gubernatorial bids. Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco is set to announce his candidacy, while former Fox News host Steve Hilton is also mulling a run. The state’s unique primary system allows the top two candidates, regardless of party affiliation, to advance to the general election.

With the 2026 gubernatorial race heating up, California is poised for a competitive and potentially historic election. Grenell’s potential bid, along with other Republican contenders, could shake up the political landscape in the state. As the race unfolds, all eyes will be on California to see who will emerge victorious in the battle for the governorship.