After a challenging election loss against Donald Trump in 2024, many are left wondering what’s next for Kamala Harris.
The former vice president, who returned to California after the election, may be eyeing a run for governor of the state, especially with Governor Gavin Newsom’s term ending in 2026.
However, this potential political move could be complicated by none other than Trump’s ally, Richard Grenell, who could be ready to step into the race and stand in her way.
Richard Grenell’s Possible Challenge to Harris
Richard Grenell, a longtime Trump ally and former U.S. ambassador to Germany, has been deeply involved in several key initiatives during Trump’s presidency.
From handling the California wildfires to playing a role in the leadership at the Kennedy Center, Grenell has held a variety of significant positions.
Now, he says he’s ready to run for California governor if Kamala Harris makes a move for the position.
Speaking from Munich, Grenell suggested that Harris’s political baggage could make it difficult for her to secure a win.
“If Kamala Harris runs for governor, I believe that she has such baggage and hundreds of millions of dollars in educating the voters of how terrible she is,” he said.
“It’s a new day in California, and that Republican actually has a shot, and I wouldn’t say no.”
Grenell’s comments show his confidence that a Republican could take advantage of the situation if Harris enters the race.
The Political Landscape in California
Though Harris has not yet officially declared her candidacy, recent polling paints an interesting picture.
According to a survey shared with the Hollywood Reporter, Harris could secure a strong lead in the race if she decides to run for governor.
Despite this, billionaire Rick Caruso, who previously ran for mayor of Los Angeles, is also eyeing the spot.
Caruso’s loss in the 2022 mayoral race to Rep. Karen Bass, despite spending over $100 million of his own funds, hasn’t dampened his political ambitions.
In fact, the state’s ongoing challenges, including the mismanagement of wildfire responses, have tarnished the reputations of several Democrats, including Bass, creating an opening for Caruso.
Kamala Harris’s Political Future
While the idea of Harris running for governor may seem like a step backward after serving as vice president, it’s not without precedent.
Historically, politicians have sought state office after a failed presidential bid.
One notable example is Richard Nixon, who lost the 1960 presidential race to John F. Kennedy but later ran for governor of California in 1962.
While his governor campaign failed, Nixon successfully ran for president in 1968.
Harris’s political future remains uncertain, but many insiders expect her to run for president again in 2028.
Despite her loss in the 2024 election, Harris maintains popularity in California, and her name recognition could give her a strong edge in any future race.
Recent polling has her leading potential Democratic contenders for the 2028 presidential nomination, which could set the stage for a fierce battle ahead.
Will Grenell Stand in Harris’s Way?
For now, it remains unclear whether Grenell will make his political ambitions official and run for governor, but his involvement in California politics is definitely something to watch.
As the state’s political landscape continues to evolve, both Harris and Grenell will likely play key roles in shaping the future of California’s leadership.
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!
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