Poll Gauges Support for Kamala Harris Write-In Bid in California Governor's Race

Former VP's name still carries weight as crowded Democratic field takes shape

Apr. 14, 2026 at 12:38am

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A photorealistic painting of the California state capitol building in Sacramento, rendered in a warm, cinematic style with dramatic shadows and highlights, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation about the state's political future.The California state capitol building stands alone in the fading light, a symbol of the state's political landscape as the 2026 governor's race takes shape.Los Angeles Today

A new poll is testing whether Kamala Harris, the former U.S. Vice President, could emerge as a write-in candidate in California's 2026 governor's race, despite not officially entering the contest. The text-based survey asks voters how likely they would be to write in Harris' name and how they would vote if she launched a write-in campaign. It also gauges whether voters believe the write-in process is easy.

Why it matters

The poll comes as the California governor's race shifts following the exit of Eric Swalwell, leaving Democrats competing for support in a crowded field that includes Katie Porter and Tom Steyer. Harris had previously been viewed as a potential frontrunner earlier in the race but chose not to run. The polling suggests her name continues to carry weight as the contest evolves.

The details

Under California law, write-in candidates must file paperwork and submit nomination signatures within a set window in April and May. Election data experts note the threshold to qualify is relatively low, requiring just dozens of signatures. Political observers say the poll may be an attempt to measure whether Harris could still enter late and consolidate support, though a write-in campaign could also divide Democratic voters further in an already fragmented field.

  • The poll was conducted in April 2026.
  • The California governor's election is scheduled for November 2026.

The players

Kamala Harris

Former U.S. Vice President who is being tested as a potential write-in candidate for the 2026 California governor's race.

Eric Swalwell

Democratic candidate who dropped out of the California governor's race amid reported allegations of sexual misconduct.

Katie Porter

Democratic candidate in the California governor's race.

Tom Steyer

Democratic candidate in the California governor's race.

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What’s next

The deadline for write-in candidates to file paperwork and submit nomination signatures in California is in April and May 2026.

The takeaway

The poll suggests Kamala Harris' name still carries significant weight in California politics, even as she has chosen not to officially enter the 2026 governor's race. Her potential late entry as a write-in candidate could shake up an already crowded and fragmented Democratic field.