Overview

• California Attorney General Rob Bonta has decided not to run for governor in 2026 and will instead seek reelection to his current position.
• Bonta has endorsed former Vice President Kamala Harris for governor, calling her a 'field-clearing' candidate if she decides to run.
• Harris has not yet confirmed her intentions but is reportedly weighing a gubernatorial campaign or a potential 2028 presidential run.
• The 2026 California governor's race already includes several prominent Democratic candidates, such as Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.
• Polling suggests Harris would have significant support among California Democrats if she enters the race, potentially reshaping the contest.