Kamala Harris Emerges as Early Frontrunner for California Governor in 2026

A new poll shows Harris leading potential Democratic candidates, though she has not confirmed plans to run.

A poll conducted by Emerson College, Inside California Politics, and The Hill shows Kamala Harris with 57% support among California Democratic primary voters in a hypothetical 2026 gubernatorial race.
Former Rep. Katie Porter follows with 9% support, while Antonio Villaraigosa and Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis each have 4%; 17% of voters remain undecided.
Harris has not announced her candidacy, stating her focus is on staying connected to her community and supporting wildfire recovery efforts in California.
Without Harris in the race, a significant 45% of voters are undecided, with Porter leading other candidates at 21%.
California Governor Gavin Newsom, who is term-limited, will leave office in 2026, opening the field for new leadership in the Democratic-dominated state.