A recent poll indicates that Former Vice President Kamala Harris is leading in a potential gubernatorial primary in California, but half of voters feel she should not run to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom. The survey by Emerson College Polling/Inside California Politics/The Hill reveals that 31 percent of likely voters in the nonpartisan primary would choose Harris if she runs, while Former Rep. Katie Porter follows with 8 percent support. About 39 percent of voters remain undecided in the race more than a year ahead of the primary. Republican Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco garnered 4 percent support, while several other candidates received 2 percent or less.
Although Harris is considered the frontrunner if she enters the race, there is reluctance among voters. The poll shows a split opinion, with 50 percent supporting her gubernatorial bid and 50 percent against it. Additionally, Harris is also seen as a top potential Democratic presidential candidate in 2028.
Harris has not confirmed her plans but stated that she is staying put. She aims to make a decision on a gubernatorial campaign by the end of summer. Without Harris in the race, Porter’s support among Democrats increases from 13 percent to 21 percent, highlighting the potential impact of Harris’s decision.
Democrats are expected to retain the governorship in California next year. The Democratic field includes Xavier Becerra, Eleni Kounalakis, Antonio Villaraigosa, Toni Atkins, and Betty Yee. On the Republican side, Richard Grenell has suggested he may run if Harris joins the race.
The survey was conducted among 1,000 registered California voters with a credibility interval of plus or minus 3 percentage points. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc.
