Former Trump administration official Richard Grenell is considering a run for California Governor in 2026, potentially setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown with Vice President Kamala Harris.
At a Glance
- Richard Grenell may run for California Governor if Kamala Harris enters the race
- Grenell believes Harris’s political baggage gives Republicans a chance in California
- Current Governor Gavin Newsom is term-limited, opening the field for new candidates
- California’s open primary system allows top two candidates to advance regardless of party
- A Republican hasn’t won statewide office in California since 2006
Grenell Eyes Gubernatorial Bid
Richard Grenell, a prominent figure in the Trump administration, has signaled his interest in running for California Governor in 2026. His potential candidacy is contingent on Vice President Kamala Harris entering the race, a move that could dramatically reshape the political landscape in the Golden State.
Grenell, who served as the Special Presidential Envoy for special missions, Ambassador to Germany, and Acting Director of National Intelligence under Trump, sees an opportunity for Republicans in a state that has long been a Democratic stronghold. His potential bid is rooted in the belief that Harris’s political record could be a liability.
“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, that it’s a new day in California, and that the Republican actually has a shot,” Grenell said.
Richard Grenell is open to challenging Kamala Harris for California governor’s race https://t.co/Y1lx6RLZLB
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) February 15, 2025
Harris’s California Connections
Kamala Harris, a native Californian with a substantial political track record in the state, is reportedly considering a gubernatorial run. Her potential candidacy has sparked intense speculation and could significantly impact the Democratic field. Harris has previously won statewide elections in California, including campaigns for attorney general and U.S. Senate.
Despite her national profile, Harris’s potential bid for Governor is not without challenges. Her tenure as Vice President has been marked by criticism and low approval ratings, which could influence her prospects in a state-level race.
Ric Grenell tells reporters in Munich he would consider running for California governor if Kamala Harris gets in the race.
"If Kamala Harris runs for governor…It's a new day in California and that the Republican actually has a shot, and I wouldn't say no”
Via @Cat_Zakrzewski
— Matt Viser (@mviser) February 14, 2025
A Crowded Field
The 2026 California gubernatorial race is shaping up to be a competitive contest, with several high-profile candidates already in the mix. On the Democratic side, contenders include Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and former Rep. Katie Porter. The Republican field is also taking shape, with former Fox News host Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco considering runs.
California’s unique primary system, where the top two vote-getters advance to the general election regardless of party affiliation, adds an extra layer of intrigue to the race. This system could potentially allow two Democrats to face off in the general election, or create an opportunity for a Republican to make it to the final round.
The last time a Republican won statewide office in California was in 2006, when Arnold Schwarzenegger was re-elected as Governor.
