California delegates question Kamala Harris's political appeal and past record as she weighs a 2026 gubernatorial run.

Democratic Delegates Split on Harris's Return to State Politics

California Democrats are divided over the possibility of Kamala Harris launching a campaign for governor in 2026, following her loss to President Donald Trump in the 2024 election. Despite her deep roots in California politics, Harris faces questions about her current visibility and political relevance within her home state.

At a weekend gathering of thousands of California Democrats, Harris appeared via a brief three-minute video, while other declared candidates for governor addressed attendees in person. The limited engagement left many delegates uncertain about her intentions and readiness to return to statewide leadership.

“She’s already been a state leader, right?” said Denise Robb, a delegate from Pasadena. “It’s just that she lost the presidential race and she’s been almost — gone. We don’t hear from her. We don’t see her.”

Other delegates echoed similar sentiments. Amanda Day of Merced said her previous support for Harris in the presidential race doesn’t automatically carry over. “Coming back to California is a whole other story,” she remarked, referencing Harris’s time as attorney general and potential concerns stemming from her record in that role.

Concerns About Electability and Elitism

Some delegates expressed concern that Harris’s image may not resonate with working-class voters. “The working class would say, ‘Oh there she is again, she has the support of the elites,’” said Mark Gracyk of San Diego. Others questioned where Harris currently stands on major issues. “Right now I have more questions than answers,” noted Ayo Banjo of Santa Cruz.

Harris has made few public appearances since her defeat in 2024, with one notable speech in May criticizing President Trump’s early actions during his second term. Her relative silence since then has left political allies and constituents wondering about her next move, which she is expected to announce by the end of summer.

Meanwhile, the Democratic field for governor continues to expand. Announced candidates include Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra.

Villaraigosa has been particularly critical, tying Harris and Becerra to a broader controversy regarding alleged efforts to conceal President Biden’s cognitive decline during his final months in office. Citing revelations from the book “Original Sin,” Villaraigosa stated, “Those who were complicit in the cover-up should take responsibility… I call on Kamala Harris and Xavier Becerra to do just that – and make themselves available to voters and the free press.”

As Harris considers her future, she faces the challenge of re-engaging with California voters and distancing herself from narratives that question her transparency and accessibility. Whether she ultimately joins the race may depend on her ability to restore trust among grassroots Democrats and navigate the crowded primary field already taking shape.