### Kamala Harris' Political Future Raises Questions Among Democrats

In gatherings over the weekend, top Democratic circles in South Carolina and California reflected a notable ambivalence regarding Kamala Harris' next political move. While influential Democrats in South Carolina scarcely mentioned her, those in California responded to discussions about her potential candidacy with impatience and existential sighs. Harris' contemplation of running for California governor or aiming for another presidential bid in 2028 appears to have left party elites guessing.

Amanda Loveday, a Democratic strategist and former executive director of the South Carolina Democratic Party, suggested that a gubernatorial run could represent a respectable departure from the national political arena. Similarly, in her home state, some California Democrats voiced concerns about Harris treating the governorship as a fallback after her presidential aspirations were dashed last year. Madison Zimmerman, a state party delegate from Shasta County, emphasized that California is not to be treated as a consolation prize.

The events in Anaheim, California, and Columbia, South Carolina — despite the vast geographical distance — could significantly influence Harris' future. California presents an opportunity to govern, while South Carolina holds a critical position in the early primary calendar, making it a pivotal state for any 2028 presidential campaign. Despite her relatively low profile in recent times, Harris remains a powerful figure in the Democratic Party, frequently topping polls for California governor and maintaining strong standings in early surveys for potential 2028 presidential contenders.

Roger Salazar, a Democratic strategist unaligned with any current gubernatorial campaigns, argued that Harris has a significant advantage should she decide to run for governor. Her established name recognition and proven fundraising abilities make her a formidable candidate. Nonetheless, Salazar questioned whether she genuinely desires the gubernatorial position.

Delegates in California, including Carol Weiss from Sunnyvale, voiced concerns that Harris might use the governorship as a stepping stone for another presidential run, potentially undermining the voters' desire for a committed, long-term leader. Harris did not attend the California Democratic Party convention but sent in a brief video address, which received a lukewarm reception.

The mood at the convention showcased the uncertainty surrounding the governor's race, with major donors, labor unions, and interest groups withholding endorsements as they await Harris' decision. Some candidates are already planning contingencies in other races if she enters the gubernatorial contest. Democratic leaders, including David Campos and Lorena Gonzalez, highlighted the growing impatience among activists and candidates eager for clarity.

While some, like Ingrid Hutt from Los Angeles, remain staunch supporters of Harris' potential gubernatorial bid, others are less enthusiastic. For instance, Minola Clark Manson from San Diego County admitted she would likely vote for Harris but with reservations.

Meanwhile, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz made appearances at both the California and South Carolina conventions, speaking highly of Harris. In South Carolina, the conversation around Harris was sparse, with some key figures like former DNC Chair Jaime Harrison briefly referencing her past accomplishments.

Progressive activist Wayne Borders and former Charleston County Democratic Party chair Sam Skardon both indicated that Harris would need to actively campaign and make a case for her candidacy. Michelle Brandt, a former vice chair of the South Carolina Democratic Party, expressed that while a Harris presidential run could be exciting, she hoped Harris would take time to recuperate after her stressful campaign.

In conclusion, as Kamala Harris weighs her options, the Democratic Party remains divided and uncertain, with many awaiting her decision to bring clarity to both the gubernatorial and presidential race landscapes.