Katie Porter Announces Bid for California Governor in Crowded Democratic Field

The former congresswoman and progressive advocate enters the race as speculation looms over Kamala Harris' potential candidacy.

Katie Porter, a former U.S. Representative and progressive figure, announced her campaign for California governor, aiming to succeed term-limited Gavin Newsom.
Porter joins a competitive Democratic field that includes Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and others, with Republicans unlikely to win in the heavily Democratic state.
Porter’s campaign emphasizes her record of holding powerful figures accountable, including her viral use of a whiteboard during congressional hearings, and her focus on issues like climate change, immigration, and economic fairness.
The race could shift significantly if former Vice President Kamala Harris decides to run, with Porter and others indicating they would likely step aside for Harris, who is expected to make a decision by summer.
California’s open primary system, where the top two vote-getters advance regardless of party, adds unpredictability to the 2026 election, with Democrats heavily favored to retain the governorship.