During her Thursday night visit to *The Late Show with Stephen Colbert*, Kamala Harris elegantly articulated her decision to forgo running for California governor in the upcoming year and her intention to take a brief respite from the political arena. "Let me be clear, I am a steadfast public servant, having dedicated my entire professional life to the welfare of the people," the former vice president began, her voice resonating with sincerity. "I pondered deeply about seeking the governorship. My state, California, holds a special place in my heart."
Harris elaborated, "But recently, I reached a conclusion: for the time being, I do not desire to re-enter that system. I perceive it as flawed." She went on to explain, "I once harbored the belief that, despite its fragility, our democracy and its systems were robust enough to uphold our foundational principles. However, I now realize they are not as fortified as they ought to be."
On the previous day, Harris had announced her decision not to contest for the governorship of California in 2026, a move she didn't elaborate further on regarding a potential presidential bid, mirroring her appearance on *The Late Show*. The following day, she unveiled plans to publish a new memoir titled *107 Days*, a chronicle of her 107-day presidential campaign trail in 2024.
"I'm not eager to reimmerse myself in that system," she continued, her eyes gleaming with resolve. "I aspire to traverse our nation, to lend an ear to its people, to engage in genuine conversations, devoid of any ulterior motive of seeking their votes."
Colbert, in response, expressed, "Hearing you declare our system broken, acknowledging its insufficiency, is chilling." Harris nodded, replying, "Indeed, it is palpable, isn't it? But my intent is not to surrender. I will remain a relentless advocate."
She further emphasized, "We must acknowledge and embrace the truth: power resides with the people. This has always been the bedrock of our nation's idealism and strength—our unwavering belief that the people wield the ultimate authority."
Harris continued passionately, "I firmly believe that now, more than ever, it is crucial for me, armed with my experiences and insights, to venture out and remind all who may have forgotten of their power. This government, this country, belongs to us, and it matters deeply."
The politician also offered a tantalizing glimpse into her memoir. "This book serves as an intimate behind-the-scenes glimpse into the odyssey of running for president. It was an intense journey," she said, to which Colbert added, "A presidential run unlike any other."
"Precisely," Harris clarified with a gentle smile, "a presidential bid, yes, but one unprecedented in its span of 107 days."
