Following a recent visit to assess the damage caused by the Palisades Fire and offer support to affected residents in California, former Vice President Kamala Harris remained tight-lipped about her future political aspirations, particularly regarding rumors of a potential run for California governor in 2026.
Since leaving Washington D.C. after President Trump's inauguration, Harris has largely maintained a low profile, with a few exceptions like her January 20th visit to survey the Eaton wildfire damage in Altadena, California. Her recent tour of the Palisades Fire affected areas and interaction with displaced residents at a Red Cross shelter provided an opportunity for reporters to inquire about her next political move. However, Harris indicated she wasn't prepared to make any announcements.
Emphasizing her recent return to California, Harris stated her focus was on connecting with her community and leaders to identify ways to offer support. When pressed by Fox 11 LA about her political future, she simply affirmed her commitment to serving Californians regardless of her official capacity.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris, right, embraces County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath during her tour of fire-ravaged areas with LA County officials. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
While Harris refrained from commenting on President Trump's response to the California wildfires, an advisor revealed to Fox 11 that the former rivals have engaged in private conversations. Following her visit to the Palisades Fire zone, Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, were seen at a Los Angeles Lakers game.
Former Vice-President Kamala Harris and Doug Emhoff attend a Lakers game at Crypto.com Arena on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025. (Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
Following her loss to Trump in the November election, Harris's future political trajectory has been a subject of much speculation. During a traditional desk drawer signing ceremony, she assured her staff that their work was not finished and she would remain active. Reports also surfaced about Harris seeking counsel from former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who also experienced a presidential election loss to Trump.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris surveys a fire-damaged neighborhood with LA County officials. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
Harris's extensive political background in California, including her service as a U.S. Senator and the state's Attorney General, fuels speculation about a potential gubernatorial run, especially given Governor Gavin Newsom's impending term limit in 2026.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris speaks with resident Jaimee Longo in a fire-damaged neighborhood. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
Besides the governorship, some speculate about another presidential bid from Harris. Her initial attempt in 2019 led to her becoming Biden's running mate. After Biden chose not to seek re-election and endorsed Harris, her second presidential campaign ended in a significant loss to Trump.
