California Attorney General Rob Bonta has announced that he will not run for governor in the upcoming election, ending months of speculation about his potential candidacy. Instead, Bonta plans to seek reelection as attorney general and support former Vice President Kamala Harris if she decides to enter the race to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Supporting Kamala Harris
In an interview with POLITICO, Bonta expressed his admiration for Harris, stating, "Kamala Harris would be a great governor." While he has not spoken directly with Harris about her potential candidacy, he has indicated his full support for her if she chooses to run.
Decision Factors
Bonta revealed that his decision not to run for governor was influenced by the political landscape, including the presence of other prominent candidates like former Rep. Katie Porter. He emphasized his commitment to leading California's legal defense amid challenges posed by the Trump administration's policies.
Political Dynamics
The field of Democratic candidates for governor includes Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former state Senate leader Toni Atkins, former state Controller Betty Yee, and state schools Superintendent Tony Thurmond. Speculation remains high around potential entries from Harris, Porter, or former HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra.
Impact on the Race
Bonta's decision not to run is expected to influence the dynamics of the governor's race, particularly in terms of support from labor unions and the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. His close ties to Porter may further boost her campaign.
Scrutiny and Response
Bonta has faced scrutiny over campaign contributions, including returning or donating funds following questions raised by media outlets. His team has clarified that the decision not to run for governor is unrelated to these reports and is primarily driven by his responsibilities as attorney general.
Looking Ahead
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Bonta's focus remains on his role as California's attorney general and the challenges the state faces in the current political climate. His decision sets a new course for the governor's race, shaping the narrative for the upcoming election.
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