Peculiar that Kamala Harris, burdened with her unsuccessful track record and association with former President Joe Biden, continues to entertain thoughts of a gubernatorial run in California. Many observers, both pro and against, curiously deem this a more achievable venture for her than another attempt at the presidency. But the question lingers, why would a former vice president wish to limit herself to a governor’s role, unless she is increasingly aware of the national disapproval she faces?
A presumption surrounds her possible gubernatorial bid in the Golden State; some believe she would already be in the lead due to her established history in the state. Others, however, sincerely question the validity of this argument. After all, she carries with her the baggage of being a former San Francisco district attorney, state attorney general, U.S. senator, and vice president. Critics suggest that such experience is far from beneficial, but rather it’s a glaring endorsement of the same failed system that the electorate is increasingly tired of.
Harris has refrained from making direct comments regarding her future political aspirations, all the while maintaining her resolve to ‘stay in the field’. But, one wonders whether there awaits a field for her anymore. The question posed by incumbent Gov. Gavin Newsom is astute: why would anyone want this role if they can’t articulate why they have a burning desire for it?
This question is particularly relevant to Harris, who now seems to be on a trajectory towards being a serial contender backed with little evidence of a will or ideology driving her. She appears to be in a political wilderness, with her office remaining conveniently silent when pressed for comments.
An observation is that Harris’ gubernatorial bid stands as a shield against the contentious 2028 Primary. After being defeated by President Donald Trump, she is understandably apprehensive about pitching herself once again to the national Democrats. She’s also burdened with the ties to an increasingly criticized Joe Biden. Questions around Biden’s age, physical fitness, and mental acuity have surfaced prominently as of late. In light of this scrutiny, Harris’ association reveals more of a liability than an asset.
The 2028 presidential race would most likely see Gavin Newsom in the running, adding to the already significant challenge before Harris. Democrats are under pressure to revamp their image amid low approval rates and dwindling influence over national policy. The unspoken question of who can best represent the Democrats against the MAGA movement is yet to be answered, and it looks increasingly less likely that the answer could be Harris.
Some critics have already started suggesting that Harris’ time might well be over. The electorate, it seems, is looking for fresh faces, insurgent voices, and genuine protagonists. This need for a major shake-up in the political system could spell an end to pro-establishment figures like Harris.
Returning to California’s gubernatorial race, it may be a safer option for Harris, but it is hardly an easy one. As the state wrestles with issues like homelessness, outlandish living costs, and an ongoing war of sentiment against President Trump, the role of its governor becomes a national spectacle. Having lost credibility on the national stage, it’s unclear if California will allow her a second chance to fail them.
The competition to replace Newsom in California is fierce, with potential candidates ranging from Katie Porter to Antonio Villaraigosa and Xavier Becerra. Even if these candidates step aside to make way for Harris, a move not guaranteed, she still faces a massive hurdle: the voters.
The perception of Harris is a tricky one. Will Californians view her as their prodigal daughter returning home, or as a failed presidential candidate seeking refuge? It is quite rare for a candidate to clinch presidency after two losses, and despite Biden being an outlier in this matter, it is unsure if Harris holds the same appeal or chance.
Uniquely, California does not adhere to a traditional Democrat and Republican advancement to the November election due to its open primary system, often referred to as the ‘jungle primary’. Opposition to Harris might emerge from inside her own party, making it more challenging for her to reach the general election.
While she has a base in the Democratic party, it’s a well-documented fact that a significant segment of the Californian electorate harbors a deep-seated disapproval of her. This brings the question: are there still voters left for her to win over?
Lastly, flying back to California might seem like a why-the-hell-not move for Harris, but she would be taking on more than just a new title. The state is plagued with a homeless crisis, severe financial instability, and crippling insurance issues. Can she endure the unpalatable prospect of dealing with these dilemmas?
All said, all this remains mere speculation. Kamala Harris could run, she may not, she could win, or she may face defeat again. In either case, she remains a highly divisive figure, and her consistent presence in the political scene is more of a curiosity than a necessity.