Overview

• Harris has given herself until late summer 2025 to decide whether to join the crowded field vying for California’s open governor’s seat.
• Declared Democratic contenders such as Katie Porter and Antonio Villaraigosa say her indecision is freezing fundraising and hindering voter outreach.
• Republican strategists and candidates view Harris’s high profile as a chance to nationalize the contest and attract out-of-state donors.
• California’s jungle primary guarantees the top two vote-getters a spot in the general election, a system that could clear the Democratic field for Harris or force a head-to-head with another Democrat.
• With the state facing a $12 billion deficit, worsening wildfires and a homelessness crisis, rivals are urging Harris to articulate a policy agenda for Sacramento.