Richard Grenell, former President Donald Trump’s special envoy, has hinted at a potential gubernatorial run in California, contingent on whether former Vice President Kamala Harris decides to enter the race. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference in Germany, Grenell expressed that he would "consider" a bid for the governorship, stating, "I wouldn’t say no" if Harris were to run.
Grenell’s comments come amid a growing conversation about the political landscape in California, particularly regarding Harris, who he claims carries significant political baggage. He suggested that her past and the financial resources spent on campaigns to inform voters about her shortcomings could provide an opportunity for a Republican candidate to challenge her successfully. "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," Grenell stated, indicating that a Republican contender could have a viable chance in the state.
Recent polling data supports the notion that Harris is a leading figure in the Democratic primary for the gubernatorial position. A survey conducted by Emerson College Polling, Inside California Politics, and The Hill revealed that nearly 60% of Democratic primary voters in California would support Harris if she chose to run. In contrast, former Democratic Representative Katie Porter garnered only 9% support, with other candidates like former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and California Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis each receiving 4%. The poll also found that 17% of voters remained undecided.
As discussions about the 2026 gubernatorial race heat up, Grenell’s remarks underscore the potential for a competitive election in California, particularly if Harris enters the fray. His perspective reflects a broader sentiment among some Republicans who see an opportunity to capitalize on Harris’s perceived vulnerabilities as they prepare for the upcoming election cycle.