Rivals criticize Kamala Harris over potential California governor run

The clock is ticking for Kamala Harris.

As a key date approaches, questions mount over her next political move – and potential rivals aren’t holding back.

Deadline Looms as Future Uncertain

July 21 is a significant date. It marks the day former Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to lose her Secret Service protection, six months after the inauguration she had hoped would be her own.

This deadline is also seen by some close to her as a potential inflection point for finally clarifying her political plans.

Many speculate she is weighing a run for California governor in 2026.

Sources suggest a decision could come soon, possibly paving the way for an announcement later this summer or early fall.

California’s Daunting Challenges

Governing the Golden State is no easy task, and the next occupant of the governor’s mansion will face immense challenges.

California is currently projected to face a budget deficit estimated at $12 billion for the upcoming year.

This fiscal reality means an end to the era of abundant spending, requiring difficult choices and potential austerity measures.

Beyond the budget, the state grapples with persistent issues like housing affordability, homelessness crises, wildfire recovery, and the future of key industries.

Managing these complex problems demands a hands-on approach.

Questions Over Motivation and Readiness

While Harris reportedly enjoys high name recognition among Democrats in California, some rivals and observers question her motivation and preparedness for the state’s specific woes.

Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who is running for governor again, has openly criticized Harris’s perceived hesitation.

“In a state with the fourth-largest economy in the world, in a state with a deficit, a state with big challenges including the high cost of living, it’s the height of arrogance that they don’t feel any urgency to get in and share with California voters her views, her positions, her vision for California future,” Villaraigosa told CNN.

He suggested her deliberation indicates she might view the governorship not as a primary goal, but something else.

A Crowded Field Stands Firm

Despite Harris’s high profile, the Democratic primary field is already populated with candidates who show no signs of backing down.

Several declared hopefuls have indicated they are committed to their campaigns regardless of what Harris decides.

Xavier Becerra, who served as California Attorney General before Harris and later worked alongside her in the Biden administration as HHS Secretary, stated he is in the race “until November 2026.”

He emphasized the need for a candidate ready to tackle the state’s intense challenges head-on, likening it to “running toward fires.”

The crowded landscape and the uncertainty surrounding Harris’s intentions have reportedly frozen many potential endorsements and decisions within the state party.

Potential Republican Challenge and Outsiders

Adding complexity to the race, prominent figures outside the traditional Democratic structure are also weighing bids.

Billionaire developer Rick Caruso, who ran for Los Angeles mayor, is reportedly polling and considering a run for governor, potentially self-funding a campaign focused on turning around the state after years of Democratic governance.

Sources also track potential interest from Trump ally Ric Grenell, which could frame the election in stark ideological terms.

Critics argue Harris’s delay prevents her from engaging with everyday Californians and understanding the granular issues facing different parts of the state.

Even legendary former Governor Jerry Brown, when asked about the prospect, downplayed talk of “legacy,” suggesting the drive to run for office is a fundamental aspect of being a politician.

Ultimately, rivals like Villaraigosa argue that Harris’s continued deliberation suggests she might view the governorship as a political “consolation prize” or a strategic move for future national ambitions, rather than a dedicated commitment to solving California’s deep and pressing problems.

The state faces significant hurdles, and voters will be watching to see if potential candidates are ready to address them head-on.