Kamala Harris is Democratic front-runner for California governor in 2026: Poll

Former Vice President Kamala Harris leads the Democratic field for the California gubernatorial race in 2026, with support from 57% of Democratic primary voters, according to a survey by Emerson College Polling/Inside California Politics/The Hill. Former Rep. Katie Porter follows Harris with 9% support, while The Hill reported that 17% of voters remain undecided about their primary choice.

Multiple reports indicated incumbent Gov. Gavin Newsom cannot seek reelection due to term limits, leaving Democrats with an open primary.

If Harris does not run, the Democratic primary will be open.