Governor Kamala Harris

California’s political landscape is heating up again, and this time Vice President Kamala Harris is at the center of the debate. Speculation about Harris running for governor of California in 2026 has ignited sharp reactions from across the political spectrum. Among the most fiery critics? Ana Kasparian of The Young Turks.

During a heated exchange on the progressive news show, Kasparian vehemently opposed the idea of Harris taking the helm of the Golden State. The clash began when co-host Cenk Uygur suggested Harris could easily win the governorship if she chose to run.

“I think Kamala Harris would probably win in a cakewalk for governor,” Uygur said confidently on Thursday’s broadcast.

Kasparian, however, was not having it.

“No! No!” she exclaimed, cutting him off. “What are you doing? What are you doing?”

Uygur, unphased by her outburst, doubled down. “I’m telling you the reality, whether you like it or not. Democratic voters in California love to obey.”

Kasparian’s response was a mix of dread and disbelief. “I’m gonna move, Cenk! I’m gonna quit my job, and I’m gonna move,” she declared.

Uygur, trying to clarify his position, explained, “I’m not saying I’m in favor of it. I’m telling you what’s likely. If the Democratic Party said, ‘We anoint Kamala Harris,’ a giant percentage of Democrats in California would go, ‘Yes! We obey. It doesn’t matter how bad she is!’”

Harris’ Rocky Reputation

The speculation about Harris’ future comes in the wake of her failed bid for the presidency and her controversial tenure as vice president. DNC fundraiser Lindy Li recently dismissed talk of Harris running for governor as “delusions,” but others believe it’s a plausible next step for the former California attorney general.

Harris’ critics argue that her leadership style and track record have left much to be desired. Kasparian didn’t mince words about her disapproval.

“This state cannot survive another incompetent Democrat leading it,” Kasparian fumed. “No, we just can’t.”

A Direct Plea to Harris

In a dramatic moment, Kasparian turned directly to the camera as if addressing Harris herself. “How about you wait and see your way out of public life? Go do what you’re supposed to do. Go work in the private sector. Go do the lobbying thing—whatever it is. But don’t run as governor of California. Do not!”

Kasparian’s plea underscores the frustration many Californians feel about the state’s political leadership. California has faced mounting challenges, from skyrocketing homelessness to a crumbling infrastructure, and critics like Kasparian believe Harris lacks the competency to tackle these issues.

The Stakes for California

If Harris does throw her hat into the gubernatorial ring, she would likely face significant scrutiny, not just from conservatives but from progressives like Kasparian, who see her as emblematic of the Democratic establishment’s failures.

For now, Harris remains in a “wait-and-see” mode regarding her political future. But as the debate continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Kamala Harris’ potential run for governor is already dividing her own party—and stirring up passionate reactions across the state.