Political analyst Chuck Todd recently voiced his reservations about Kamala Harris's potential run for the California governorship in 2026.
Just The News reported that concerns center on her political viability and suitability for the role, with mixed reception among analysts and voters alike.
On March 30, during an interview, Todd articulated his skepticism regarding Harris's path to the governor's office. He noted her extensive political background in California might be a detriment, hypothesizing that voters may prefer a fresh face. This comment comes amid growing speculation about Harris's political future.
At a social event before the Oscars, reported by Politico on March 7, Harris herself mentioned that she would decide by the end of summer whether to seek the governorship.
This has sparked discussions within political circles and among potential Democratic candidates striving to replace Governor Gavin Newsom.
Several notable Democrats have thrown their hats into the ring for the 2026 gubernatorial race. These include Toni Atkins, Eleni Kounalakis, Katie Porter, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. However, both Kounalakis and Porter indicated they would step aside should Harris decide to run.
In contrast, the Republican field appears sparse, with Chad Bianco, Riverside County Sheriff and a staunch Trump supporter, as the only prominent figure to announce his candidacy so far. This political landscape sets a complex stage for Harris, should she choose to enter the race.
Todd recommended that Harris instead focus on non-political initiatives. He advised her involvement in the upcoming Los Angeles Olympic Committee and efforts to rebuild LA, suggesting that stepping away from the political fray could benefit her future endeavors.
Political commentator Mark Halperin echoed some of Todd's sentiments in December, expressing doubts about Harris's gubernatorial prospects. He questioned her desire for the role, given its demanding nature and her popularity issues.
However, the numbers tell a somewhat different story. A poll conducted by the University of California, Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies and reported in November by the Los Angeles Times showed that 72% of Democrats would consider voting for Harris for governor.
Further complicating the narrative, a Puck News/Echelon Insights poll from the same month revealed that 41% of likely Democratic voters would support Harris in a hypothetical 2028 presidential run. This indicates a complicated perception among the electorate concerning her political future.
Todd's advice encapsulated his views on Harris's broader strategic moves. "I just don’t see the path for her," he said, suggesting instead that she "go throw yourself into the rebuild of LA and get involved with the LA Olympic Committee. Be above politics for a couple of years and come back maybe in 2030 or 2032."
Halperin also weighed in, underscoring the challenges and risks of pursuing the gubernatorial office. "I think she’d be surprised at how tough it is," he commented, pondering the rationale behind seeking a challenging role with uncertain outcomes.
As debates and discussions about Harris's political future continue, the coming months are likely to provide more clarity on her decisions.
Her influence and the strategic choices she makes could significantly shape not only her career but also the political landscape in California and beyond.