In a recent episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Former VP Kamala Harris stops by for a special extended interview. She reveals to the host her decision to step away from politics. She notes, while she loves being a public servant, the political system is too “broken.”
Harris had been in talks to run for Governor of California in 2026. However, earlier this week, she announced that she would not be a part of the race. Colbert jokingly hinted that she had her eyes on something bigger — possibly the 2028 Presidential Election. Despite sharing a brief laugh with Colbert and the audience, Harris declared at this point in her life, she “doesn’t wanna go back” into politics.
She added,” I always believed that as fragile as our democracy is, our systems would be strong enough to defend our most fundamental principles. And I think right now that they’re not as strong as they need to be. For now, I don’t want to go back into that system.”
On Wednesday (July 30), Kamala Harris released her official statement regarding her decision not to run for the governorship of California. In the letter, Harris writes, “Over the past six months, I have spent time reflecting on this moment in our nation’s history, and the best way for me to continue fighting for the American people and advancing the values and ideals I hold dear.”
She continues: “I am a devout public servant, and from the earliest days of my career, I have believed that the best way I could make a difference in people’s lives and fight for a better future was to improve the system from within. And it has been a profound honor to do that work and serve the people of California and our nation—as a prosecutor, Attorney General, United States Senator, and Vice President.”
She added, “In recent months, I have given serious thought to asking the people of California for the privilege to serve as their Governor. I love this state, its people, and its promise. It is my home. But after deep reflection, I’ve decided that I will not run for Governor in this election.”