Former Vice President Kamala Harris says the 2026 midterms are her top priority while she remains undecided about a 2028 presidential run. She has been advising activists and candidates and plans appearances in Michigan, Nevada and Georgia, but has not launched the high-profile fundraising or policy efforts typical of a campaign. Gavin Newsom says he would not run if Harris enters the race, and Donna Brazile recommends waiting until after the Nov. 3 general election for a final decision.
Kamala Harris Keeps 2028 Option Open While Putting 2026 Midterms First
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - APRIL 18: Former Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at the 38th Annual Michigan Democratic Women's Caucus Legacy Luncheon on April 18, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Bill Pugliano/Getty Images)
Former Vice President Kamala Harris remains undecided about a 2028 presidential bid but is publicly concentrating on the 2026 midterm elections. She has been advising activists and candidates and scheduling campaign appearances, yet has not taken the high-profile fundraising or policy steps that typically signal the start of a presidential campaign.
Where She Stands
Harris has repeatedly said she is still "thinking about" a future White House run while stressing that her immediate priority is helping Democrats succeed in the 2026 cycle. In a podcast interview with Megan Rapinoe she said,
"Right now, midterms, midterms, midterms, full-time occupying my thoughts, my mind and my work."
Political Activity, Not A Campaign Launch
According to people who spoke with CNN, Harris has spent recent weeks calling activists and candidates to discuss the 2024 contest and to offer counsel. However, she has not begun making the kinds of major policy speeches, donor introductions or organizational moves that usually accompany the start of a presidential campaign.
Planned Appearances
Her fall schedule is expected to include appearances on behalf of Democratic candidates in Michigan, Nevada and Georgia. Reported engagements include campaigning with Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, appearing with Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford (who is running for governor), and joining Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff on the trail. Harris also participated by audio in an organizing call hosted by 1 Million Black Voters Rising for National Voter Registration Day.
Implications for the Democratic Field
Harris's ambivalence over a 2028 run comes as several Democrats weigh their options. California Gov. Gavin Newsom told CNN he would not run if Harris decides to enter the race — "Of course not. Why would I?" he said. Former DNC Chair Donna Brazile urged patience, suggesting there is no need for an immediate decision and recommending the question be revisited after the November 3 general election.
Bottom line: Harris is actively supporting Democratic efforts for 2026 while keeping the door open on 2028, but she has not yet taken the concrete steps that would mark the start of a presidential campaign.
Help us improve.
