Veteran California politician Willie Brown, who once served as San Francisco mayor and had a personal connection with Former Vice President Kamala Harris in the 1990s, has advised against her pursuing the 2026 race for governor. Speaking on the State of Gold podcast, Brown expressed concerns over both her fit for the role and her electability across conservative and swing districts.
Brown, now 91, emphasized that Harris’s strengths lie more in areas like legal leadership—suggesting she may be better suited for roles such as state attorney general or even a judicial appointment. He cautioned: “That may not be where she should be going. I think it’s going to be difficult for her to win that job.”
With Harris expected to announce her decision by summer’s end, Brown’s public remarks add an early voice of skepticism from within Democratic ranks. His comments echo broader unease about a potential primary that taps into divided support within California’s electorate.
If Harris enters the race, she would join a crowded field vying to replace outgoing Governor Gavin Newsom—including statewide leaders such as Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis and Former HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. Brown singled out businessman Mike Hilton as a top-tier GOP contender who could galvanize crossover support in the general election.
At times blunt and candid, Brown remains influential in California politics—even in retirement. His words may resonate with voters weighing experience, political persona, and ideological appeal ahead of the 2026 vote.