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Kamala Harris steps back into the spotlight
After a period of relative silence following her defeat in the 2024 presidential election, former Vice President Kamala Harris is gearing up to make her presence felt once again. Scheduled to headline a fundraiser for the Democratic National Committee (DNC) in New York on May 6, Harris is poised to engage in a discussion with DNC Chairman Ken Martin.
This event is not just a social gathering; it marks a significant moment in her potential political trajectory. With ticket prices ranging from $25,000 to $44,300, the fundraiser is expected to attract high-profile donors and supporters, signaling Harris’s intent to remain a key player in the Democratic Party.
Future ambitions: Governor or President?
At 60, Harris is at a crossroads, contemplating her next move in the political arena. Sources close to her indicate that she is weighing a run for California governor in 2026 against the possibility of seeking the Democratic presidential nomination in 2028.
Despite her recent low profile, she has reportedly communicated to her allies that she will make a decision about her political future by the end of summer. “I’m staying in this fight,” she has asserted, reflecting her determination to remain relevant in the political discourse.
Additionally, there are whispers of her launching an “institute for policy and ideas,” which could further solidify her influence within the party.
Polling insights and public perception
Current polling suggests that Harris is a frontrunner among potential candidates for the California governorship, with a notable 31% support in a hypothetical primary.
However, the landscape is complex, as nearly half of likely voters in California express reluctance to see her on the ballot. This mixed reception highlights the challenges she faces as she navigates her political ambitions. Meanwhile, incumbent Governor Gavin Newsom, who will leave office in January 2027 due to term limits, has been mentioned as a potential candidate for the 2028 presidential race.
Newsom has voiced concerns about the Democratic Party’s image, suggesting that it became “toxic” during Harris’s vice presidency and emphasizing the need for outreach to Republican voters.
