Major California Democrat predicts Kamala Harris would be ‘field-clearing’ if former VP runs for governor

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has expressed his support for former Vice President Kamala Harris if she decides to run for governor of California in 2026. Bonta, who has been serving as the state’s attorney general since 2021, has announced that he will seek re-election next year instead of launching a gubernatorial campaign, putting an end to speculation about his future political plans.

In an interview with Politico, Bonta praised Harris, saying, “Kamala Harris would be a great governor.” He added that he would support her if she chose to run, emphasizing his unwavering support for her throughout her career. However, Bonta clarified that he has not directly discussed the possibility of a gubernatorial run with Harris.

With Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom term-limited and unable to seek re-election in 2026, the race for the governor’s seat is expected to be highly competitive. Harris, who has previously served as San Francisco district attorney, California attorney general, and U.S. senator, is seen as a potential frontrunner in the race.

Speculation has been rife about Harris’s next political move since her defeat in the 2024 presidential election to former President Donald Trump. While there are rumors of a potential presidential run in 2028, Harris has not made any official announcements about her future plans.

Sources close to Harris have indicated that no decisions have been made regarding her next steps. However, in a video message to the Democratic National Committee, Harris reaffirmed her commitment to the party, hinting at her continued political ambitions.

In addition to Harris, several other prominent Democrats have thrown their hats into the ring for the governor’s race. Candidates include Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, a close ally of Harris, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and former Rep. Katie Porter. Former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, who previously served as California attorney general and in Congress, is also considering a run for governor.

As the Democratic field for governor in California continues to grow, the race is shaping up to be a closely watched and hotly contested battle. With the support of key figures like Rob Bonta, Kamala Harris’s potential candidacy promises to add even more excitement to the upcoming election cycle.