Kamala Harris faces first big test for presidential run as she explodes back on to political stage

Kamala Harris is stepping back into California’s political spotlight, throwing her weight behind two Democratic House candidates in races that could help determine control of Congress — and offering an early glimpse at how the former vice president plans to operate ahead of the 2028 presidential cycle.Harris is set to headline a Sept.26 fundraiser in San Diego for Democratic City Councilmember Marni von Wilpert, who is running for the newly redrawn 48th Congressional District.On Oct.

2, Harris is scheduled to campaign in the Sacramento area for former state senator and pediatrician Richard Pan, who is challenging Rep.Kevin Kiley in California’s 6th District.

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By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story The plans were first reported by POLITICO, which obtained invitations to the events.The appearances mark Harris’ first announced midterm campaign stops in her home state and come as Democrats look to capitalize on California’s newly redrawn congressional map.The stakes are particularly notable for Harris, who remains a prominent Democratic figure after her unsuccessful 2024 presidential campaign.

Matt Klink, a California-based political consultant, told The California Post that Harris’ appearances are less about expanding her political coalition than energizing Democratic voters.“Harris isn’t testing whether she can broaden her appeal.Gavin Newsom’s Prop 50 redistricting already rigged these districts to make Democrats’ job easier.

So Kamala’s campaign stops are about turnout, not persuasion.”Klink added: “Nationalizing these two Congressional races around Kamala Harris hands vulnerable Democrats a gift-wrapped attack ad.It reminds voters of the failed Biden-Harris administration and takes attention off Donald Trump.”California ...