Kamala Harris faces a pivotal moment, with options ranging from another White House bid to becoming California’s governor. Her journey ahead is shaped by a bruising election loss and questions about her political future.
Presiding Over Defeat
Vice-President Kamala Harris will certify her own defeat to Donald Trump in her role as Senate president. On Monday, she will stand at the House Speaker’s rostrum to lead the Electoral College vote count. This formality cements Trump’s victory two weeks before his return to the White House.
The situation is both painful and awkward. Harris had labeled her opponent a grave threat to democracy. Still, aides emphasize her commitment to fulfilling her constitutional duties with grace. She follows a precedent set by Al Gore in 2001 and Richard Nixon in 1961, who also presided over their own electoral defeats.
Harris’s improbable election story saw her rise as the Democratic standard-bearer. Initially Biden’s running mate, her fleeting campaign offered hope but revealed deep divisions within her party. Now, she and her team weigh her next steps, including a 2028 White House run or a gubernatorial bid in California.
Considering Future Political Paths
Recent Democratic losers like Al Gore and Hillary Clinton opted against another presidential run. Harris’s team, however, argues her strong support and unique circumstances warrant another bid. They draw comparisons to Trump’s comeback after his 2020 loss.
Still, Harris faces skepticism within her party. While some Democrats do not blame her for Trump’s victory, others question her chances in 2028. Critics argue she underperformed with key groups like Black and Latino voters. Her 2019 presidential campaign, which ended prematurely, adds to doubts about her viability.
Harris remains noncommittal about her future. She is reflecting on a whirlwind campaign marked by intense efforts, including selecting a running mate and leading her party’s convention. Allies suggest she could run for California governor in 2026, following Gavin Newsom’s term. The role could serve as a “capstone” to her career, offering a significant platform to address Trump’s policies.
Alternatively, Harris may step back from politics to lead a foundation, write a book, or take on a global advocacy role. Some suggest she could return as attorney general or secretary of state in a future Democratic administration.
Weighing the Challenges and Opportunities
Harris’s recent loss has humbled her team but also strengthened their resolve. Aides highlight her ability to mobilize Democratic voters and perform strongly on economic issues compared to Biden. However, her association with Biden’s administration remains a hurdle. Critics argue his late decision to drop out of the race hurt her candidacy.
A potential 2028 primary would likely feature rising Democratic stars like Gretchen Whitmer, JB Pritzker, and Gavin Newsom. Despite this competition, Harris’s name recognition, resources, and support base could give her an edge.
Some suggest Harris may seek a less conventional path. Leading California as its first Black female governor or stepping into the private sector could provide new opportunities. Allies believe her extensive experience makes her an attractive candidate for various leadership roles.
For now, Harris plans to stay visible and active in the Democratic Party. Her upcoming international trips signal her desire to maintain a global presence. As the Biden-Harris administration concludes, Harris reflects on her journey with a mix of grief and determination.
Staying in the Fight
In recent public appearances, Harris has emphasized resilience, urging Americans to persist in their causes despite setbacks. She remains undecided about her next move, keeping all options open as she waits for the political landscape to evolve.
Whether Harris returns to the White House campaign trail, leads California, or takes on another role, one thing is clear: she intends to stay in the fight. For now, her focus is on rebuilding and contributing to her party’s future while contemplating how best to serve the public.