California governor could be in play as Kamala Harris decides her next move

• That includes a potential 2026 gubernatorial run, where she'd enter a crowded field with more support than those already running, according to a new poll from the UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies.

Why it matters: Harris, a Bay Area native, would have a major advantage against any other candidate if she decided to run.

State of play: That existing field includes San Diego's Toni Atkins — the former state Senate leader, assembly speaker and city council president — Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, former state controller Betty Yee, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and state schools superintendent Tony Thurmond.

• Outgoing Rep. Katie Porter has hinted at a possible run, and a USC poll found her in a strong position if she jumps in.

Yes, but: She's not expected to make a decision anytime soon as she still considers a 2028 presidential bid or whether to move back to California permanently, Politico reported.

What they're saying: "Could she run for governor? Yes. Do I think she wants to run for governor? Probably not. Could she win? Definitely. Would she like the job? I don't know. Could she run for president again? Yes," former Harris aide Brian Brokaw told Politico.

Catch up quick: Harris, who became the Democratic nominee following President Biden's unprecedented exit from the race, fared worse in the election than her party had hoped. She suffered pivotal losses in battleground states that Biden won four years earlier.

What's next: In the near term, Harris and her team are working on how to redefine her role in the Democratic party amid a second Trump presidency.

• She is expected to discuss her political options with family members over the coming holidays, according to Politico.
• As her vice presidential term comes to a close, she will certify the presidential election results and attend Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20.