Silke Mayr Kamala Harris, outgoing vice-president, is weighing her future options. These include another White House bid in 2028 or a potential run for California governor. Two months after her loss to Donald Trump, she faces a bittersweet moment. On Monday, Harris will preside over the certification of her own defeat, a constitutional duty she plans to handle with dignity.
Standing as president of the Senate, she will officially certify Trump’s Electoral College victory. This echoes historical precedents, like Al Gore in 2001 and Richard Nixon in 1961, who endured similar losses. The moment closes an improbable election journey for Harris, whose campaign briefly energized the Democratic Party before exposing internal fractures.
Weighing the Next Steps
Harris and her team are deliberating her next move. While past Democratic candidates like Al Gore and Hillary Clinton avoided second presidential runs, Harris’s allies argue she remains a strong contender. They highlight the enthusiasm she generated and her performance under intense, condensed campaign pressures. Some even compare her path to Trump’s political comeback after his own defeat.
Despite her appeal, critics within the party are skeptical about Harris leading another presidential campaign. Democratic governors like Gretchen Whitmer, Gavin Newsom, and JB Pritzker are seen as fresher alternatives. Harris, however, is in no rush to decide. She is reflecting on the campaign, which saw her juggle launching a campaign, choosing a running mate, and traveling extensively in just 107 days.
Her supporters maintain that Harris’s 75 million votes show her relevance. While Trump won decisively, his margins were narrow, and Harris still has a significant base. Allies blame Biden’s delayed decision to run and subsequent withdrawal for setting her campaign on an uphill path. However, critics point to her struggles with key Democratic demographics like Black and Latino voters.
Exploring Diverse Opportunities
For now, Harris is keeping her options open. She may consider a gubernatorial bid in California in 2026, aligning with her deep political ties to the state. This would position her as a direct opponent to Trump, who has frequently criticized California’s progressive policies. The role would also make her the nation’s first Black female governor.
Some suggest she could step out of politics entirely. Options include running a foundation, heading a policy institute, or serving as attorney general in a future administration. Internationally, Harris could champion global causes, as her planned overseas trip before leaving office suggests.
Others note that Harris retains significant political capital. Her name recognition, campaign infrastructure, and volunteer network position her as a powerful player in rebuilding the Democratic Party. Supporters believe she could shape the party’s future, whether as a governor, a candidate, or a global leader.
Reflections on Legacy and Leadership
Harris’s loss has brought both humility and determination to her team. Despite the setback, they take pride in her efforts. Harris has expressed gratitude for the campaign’s accomplishments, particularly in mobilizing voters and supporting key congressional races. She remains optimistic about her ability to lead and inspire.
While Harris has kept a low profile since the election, she continues to emphasize resilience. At a recent event, she reminded students that progress requires persistence, even after setbacks. Her mantra, “stay in the fight,” resonates as she considers her next steps.
Whether as California’s governor, a presidential contender, or a global advocate, Harris aims to remain visible. Her decision will shape not just her legacy but also the future direction of the Democratic Party. As one ally noted, Harris’s career has always been about serving the people. Her next chapter will reflect how she continues that mission.