Kamala Harris 2028 presidential run sees sagging support: poll

Former Vice President Kamala Harris is seeing less support for a potential 2028 presidential bid, according to a new poll, as sources say she is leaning toward a 2026 gubernatorial run in California.

Key findings: The latest Emerson College survey shows Harris capturing 13% of Democratic primary voters — a sharp decline from the pollster’s November survey, when she secured 37% support shortly after her 2024 presidential loss. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg leads the latest poll with 16%, while California Gov. Gavin Newsom holds 12%. However, Buttigieg’s lead comes with limitations as he registered zero support from Black voters, while Harris commands 30.1% backing in that community. The survey, which was conducted from June 24-25 among 1,000 registered voters, found 23% of Democrats remain undecided.

California Governor Harris?: Sources recently told The Hill that Harris is considering running for California governor, with one claiming that the prospect has given her “a glimmer in her eyes.” Harris, who has been meeting privately with longtime supporters in recent Bay Area visits to assess California’s current political landscape, has established an end-of-summer deadline for her decision and intends to use a July vacation for further deliberation. Democratic fundraisers, however, express mixed reactions to her potential run. Mather Martin, a San Francisco fundraiser who previously worked on Harris campaigns, told Politico, “There was more enthusiasm at first. I think it waned a bit.” Several major donors reportedly worry her candidacy could reopen wounds from her 2024 loss, with some seeking guarantees about her campaign approach and chances of victory.