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The election is to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is wrapping up his second term. In California, a governor can only serve two consecutive four-year terms if reelected.
Already, a gaggle of Democrats and Republicans have thrown their hat in the ring to succeed the Democratic governor. California Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, a Democrat, has already announced her candidacy. Republican Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco has also announced a primary bid, among others. But if Harris decides to run, political strategists say it could create a scramble on down-ballot races.
"The vice president, she can get into the race later just because she has universal name ID, probably an unlimited ability to raise money and could very well clear the field if she does get into the race," said Jim Ross, a Bay Area political consultant.
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Even if Harris gets in the race, experts say the nature of California's primary system could lead to unpredictability. As an open primary state, all candidates - regardless of party affiliation - are on the same single ballot. The top two performers from the primary ultimately face each other off in the November general election.
Who has formally announced a bid for governor?
As of early March, nine Democrats and four Republicans have launched a former bid for California's chief executive.
Which Democrats are running?
- Toni Atkins, former Speaker of the California Assembly and former State Senate President pro tempore
- Stephen Cloobeck, founder and former CEO of Diamond Resorts International
- Eleni Kounalakis, California Lieutenant Governor
- Katie Porter, former Orange County Congresswoman
- Tony Thurmond, California State Superintendent
- Antonio Villaraigosa, former Los Angeles mayor and former Speaker of the California Assembly
- Betty Yee, former California State Controller
- Michael Younger, private and public sector strategist
Which Republicans are running?
- Chad Bianco, Riverside County Sheriff
- Sharifah Hardie, business consultant
- Jimmy Parker, a former judge
- Leo Zacky, former businessman of longtime U.S. turkey producer Zacky Farms