Poll: Kamala Harris Holds Narrow Majority Support Among Democratic Voters for Governor

Harris Holds Slim Majority in California Governor Poll

Former Vice President Kamala Harris holds a slim majority of support among Democratic primary voters in California should she decide to run for governor in 2026, according to a recent poll.

A survey conducted by Emerson College Polling, Inside California Politics, and The Hill found that 57% of Democratic primary voters would back Harris in a hypothetical gubernatorial race. Former Representative Katie Porter follows at a distant second with just 9% support, while 17% of voters remain undecided. Maryland GovPics / Wikimedia

Potential Challengers and Political Endorsements

California Attorney General Rob Bonta recently announced that he would not enter the governor’s race but expressed his support for Harris, despite her not having formally declared her candidacy. Other potential contenders include former California State Assembly Speaker Antonio Villaraigosa and current Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, both polling at 4% each. Douglas Despres, California Attorney General's Office / Wikimedia

Harris’s Political Stance and Public Engagement

Harris has remained noncommittal regarding her future political plans. When asked about her next steps during a recent visit to wildfire-affected areas in Los Angeles, she emphasized her focus on community engagement, stating she wanted "to be in touch with my community, to be in touch with the leaders" and "support them." Saul Loeb-Pool via Imagn Images

Changing Demographics and Political Shifts in California

California remains firmly under Democratic control, with the party dominating both the governorship and state legislature. However, demographic shifts indicate that the state’s political landscape could evolve in the coming years. A report from the Public Policy Institute of California projects that by 2040, the population of residents aged 65 and older will increase by 59%, while the number of children is expected to decline by 24%. Additionally, ongoing migration out of California could influence future voting patterns. DreiKubik / Pixabay

Newsom’s Tenure and Recall Challenges

Current Governor Gavin Newsom, who survived a recall election in 2021, is serving his second and final term. In the wake of recent wildfires, he has once again been served recall papers, further highlighting the shifting political climate in California. Office of the Governor of California / Wikimedia