Kamala Harris chooses possibility over predictability

July 30, 2025

Vice President Kamala Harris announced she will not run for California governor, marking the first time in over 20 years she won't be a candidate for elected office. This decision follows her historic 107-day presidential campaign after becoming the Democratic nominee when President Biden withdrew from the race. Harris's statement indicated she's seeking new methods of public service beyond traditional political pathways, reflecting what many see as Black women's evolving relationship with American political institutions.

Who is affected

Kamala Harris herself, who is charting a new course after 20 years as a candidate
The Democratic Party and potential candidates for California governor
Black women in politics who have seen Harris as a blueprint for leadership
Future generations of women, particularly women of color, who have been inspired by Harris's "Kamala Effect"
American voters, particularly those who supported Harris's presidential bid

What action is being taken

Harris is explicitly rejecting a gubernatorial run in California
Harris is "getting back out and listening to the American people" according to her statement
Harris is helping elect Democrats across the nation
Harris is developing new plans to be shared in the coming months
Harris is exploring alternative methods of public service outside traditional political structures

Why it matters

This decision represents a significant shift in Harris's career trajectory after being on the ballot for two decades and nearly becoming the first woman president in American history. Her choice reflects broader questions about how Black women can effectively wield power in American democracy, with Harris suggesting that current political institutions have "failed the American people." As the highest-profile Black woman in politics, Harris's next steps will likely influence other women of color considering political leadership, continuing what supporters call the "Kamala Effect" that has inspired many elected Black women who model their leadership after hers.

What's next

Harris will share more details about her future plans in the coming months
She will continue listening to Americans and helping elect Democrats
Questions remain about whether Harris might run for president again in 2028
Harris may explore non-traditional forms of public service and leadership
She will likely continue to have influence on future generations of women in politics through what supporters call the "Kamala Effect"

Read full article from source: The 19th