Former Vice President Kamala Harris is mulling a run in California’s gubernatorial race and will make a decision by the end of summer, two sources familiar with her plans tell ABC

Former Vice President Kamala Harris is mulling a run in California’s gubernatorial race and will make a decision by the end of summer, two sources familiar with her plans tell ABC

**Kamala Harris Contemplates Run for California Governor: A Game-Changer in State Politics**

Former Vice President Kamala Harris is reportedly weighing the option of entering California’s gubernatorial race, with a decision expected by the end of this summer. According to two sources familiar with her plans, Harris has been considering a potential bid for the state’s top office, signaling a major shift in California’s political landscape. If she chooses to run, Harris would bring a wealth of experience and national recognition to the contest, igniting considerable interest across both the state and the country.

**Kamala Harris: A Proven Political Force**

Harris, who made history as the first woman, first Black, and first South Asian Vice President of the United States, has long been a prominent figure in American politics. Before serving under President Joe Biden, she was California’s Attorney General, where she gained a reputation for her progressive policies and commitment to criminal justice reform. Her time in the Senate further solidified her political stature, making her a key player in the Democratic Party.

**A Strong Contender for the Governorship?**

If Harris decides to pursue the California governorship, she would be entering a race with significant stakes. Current Governor Gavin Newsom, who faced a recall election in 2021 but managed to retain his position, is term-limited, paving the way for a new generation of leaders to step up. California’s political future is uncertain, and Harris, as a familiar face with considerable national backing, could become a frontrunner.

Supporters of Harris point to her track record of leadership, her national visibility, and her deep ties to California’s diverse communities as factors that would make her a strong contender. California, with its vast population and unique political climate, presents both opportunities and challenges for any gubernatorial candidate, but Harris’s experience at the national level could provide her with the leverage needed to succeed.

**The Timing of Harris’s Decision**

Harris’s camp has indicated that the former Vice President will make a final decision on whether to enter the race by the end of the summer. This timeline is crucial as it allows her to gauge the political landscape, assess potential opponents, and evaluate her standing among California voters. A run for governor would also require her to navigate the intricacies of California’s political dynamics, which are often shaped by complex issues such as housing, the economy, climate change, and racial justice.

**Challenges Ahead**

While Harris’s political pedigree is undeniable, a run for California governor would not be without challenges. Her tenure as Vice President has been met with mixed reviews, with some critics questioning her ability to manage high-stakes political issues. In addition, California’s electorate is diverse and progressive, and candidates must balance the interests of various factions, including environmentalists, tech giants, labor unions, and underserved communities.

Moreover, Harris’s national profile could present both an advantage and a challenge. While her name recognition is high, it also means that she would be under intense scrutiny from both local and national media. Her leadership style, policy decisions, and past political moves will likely be dissected in a way that no other gubernatorial candidate would face.

**What’s Next for Kamala Harris?**

The decision facing Kamala Harris is a pivotal one. A run for California governor could mark a new chapter in her political career, potentially setting her on a path to becoming one of the most powerful leaders in the state. It could also present an opportunity to further solidify her legacy as a transformative figure in American politics.

With summer approaching and the political climate shifting, all eyes will be on Harris as she makes a final decision on her political future. A gubernatorial bid would undoubtedly change the dynamics of the race and could have significant implications not just for California, but for the Democratic Party as a whole.

As the political world watches closely, one question remains: will Kamala Harris take the plunge and run for governor of California? The answer will come soon enough, but for now, speculation and anticipation continue to build.