Kamala Harris

A speaker gestures while standing at a podium labeled “CADEM California Democratic Party” during an event. A large screen behind him shows a mirrored projection of the stage with American and California flags in the background.

Politics

Xavier Becerra jumps into crowded race for California governor

The former California attorney general noted that he had experience fighting Trump after suing his first administration more than 100 times.

By Alexei Koseff • April 2, 2025

A speaker stands at a podium labeled "CADEM California Democratic Party," delivering a speech with a hand gesture. The background features dark blue curtains and a California state flag. In the foreground, an audience member holds up a phone to capture the moment. The lighting highlights the speaker against the dimly lit backdrop.

Politics

Katie Porter enters race for California governor promising to stand up to Donald Trump

Former Orange County Rep. Katie Porter is the latest politician joining the competitive 2026 race for California governor. All eyes are on former Vice President Kamala Harris.

By Alexei Koseff • March 11, 2025

A man in a red tie and suit is gesturing to a crowd while on stage behind bulletproof glass at a political rally.

Elections

Did your county back Trump more this time than in 2020?

The president-elect increased his vote share in 45 of 58 California counties in 2024. And Kamala Harris won 1.8 million fewer votes statewide than Joe Biden in 2020.

By Jeremia Kimelman • December 5, 2024

A person with white hair and wearing a grey shirt uses a paint roller to paint a yellow brick wall in an alley.

Politics

‘A pivotal moment?’ Why many Latino voters in California chose Trump

In part due to economic and border security concerns, Latinos in California appear to have moved toward Donald Trump. But that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re abandoning the Democratic Party.

By Yue Stella Yu • November 15, 2024

Four people stand on a stage behind individual podiums, each looking towards their right in front of an audience at a governor candidate forum. Blue, red and gray lights illuminate the stage curtains the background.

Commentary

Let the games begin: 2026 campaign for California governor now looms

The next political cycle begins with no clear frontrunners for California governor. There are at least a dozen potential candidates, plus one huge unknown factor: Vice President Kamala Harris’s career plans after losing her presidential bid.

By Dan Walters • November 14, 2024

A person wearing a hijab and purple sweatshirt inserts a pink ballot into a pink ballot box at a polling place.

Elections

Wrapping up the California vote, uncertain and mixed results for Democrats

Against a national red wave, Californians sent a top Trump nemesis to the US Senate, and favored Democrats in House and state races. But they also toughened criminal sentences and rejected more rent control.

By Ryan Sabalow and Sameea Kamal • November 6, 2024

A person wearing a dark suit and red tie stands in front of a background filled with American flags. The individual is pointing forward with a determined expression, emphasizing a stance of confidence and focus amidst the patriotic setting.

Elections

Return of the Resistance State: What another Trump presidency will mean for California

Expect four more years of combative showdowns between California's Democratic leadership and a second Trump White House.

By Alexei Koseff • November 5, 2024

Vice President Kamala Harris, wearing a tan blazer and black shirt, stands behind a podium with a view of a crowded arena behind her at a campaign rally.

Commentary

Kamala Harris is different. In a good way. That was clear away from the California limelight

CalMatters contributor Jim Newton reflects on his interactions with Kamala Harris over the years, and the qualities that helped her stand out during her time in political office in California.

By Jim Newton • November 4, 2024

About a dozen people carrying bags, luggage and other personal belongings stand at a public plaza before they board a bus in Los Angeles.

Elections

Busloads of Californians are heading to swing states. Can they make a difference?

Californians are heading east to knock on doors ahead of the 2024 election. Democrats in particular are sending busloads of volunteers to Arizona and Nevada.

By Ana B. Ibarra • October 31, 2024

A rearview of a person standing at a podium. They are framed by a door and inside the room cameras and press face the person. American flags are visible at the side, inside the room. The photo is from a ground-level perspective. Lights reflect off the polished ground. The setting is a press conference.

Elections

Most California Republicans in Congress won’t commit to certifying the 2024 presidential election

Only one-third of the California GOP congressional delegation has pledged to accept the 2024 presidential election results. And only two incumbents in office in 2021 voted to certify President Joe Biden’s win over Donald Trump in the 2020 race.

By Yue Stella Yu and Jenna Peterson • October 24, 2024