Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign rally at the Wisconsin State Fair Expo in West Allis, Wis., Friday, Nov. 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)
Though she called California "my home" and expressed pride in serving the state, Harris said her efforts would be focused elsewhere.
The announcement reconfigures the 2026 Democratic primary field, potentially clearing the way for candidates like Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and former Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti to mount less encumbered campaigns.
In her X post, Harris seemed to signal she isn’t retreating from politics entirely. "We must be willing to pursue change through new methods and fresh thinking—committed to our same values and principles, but not bound by the same playbook," she wrote. "My leadership—and public service—will not be in elected office."
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While stepping aside from the race, Harris vowed to continue the fight for "freedom, opportunity, fairness, and the dignity of all."
This is a breaking news story. Check back later for more updates.
Jasmine is a writer at Fox News Digital and a military spouse. Stories can be sent to jasmine.baehr@fox.com or to @JasmineSBaehr via X.
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/former-vice-president-kamala-harris-not-run-california-governor