Former California Democratic Rep. Katie Porter on Tuesday formally announced her bid for the state's top seat, launching a bid to replace the term limited governor Gavin Newsom.

She now joins fellow Democrats Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, former state Controller Betty Yee, former state legislative leader Tony Atkins, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and businessman Stephen Cloobeck, for the nomination.

Reports have also indicated that former Vice President Kamala Harris is mulling her own run for the coveted seat, after she lost the national election for the White House last year, according to NBC News.

“What California needs now is a little bit of hope and a whole lot of grit, fresh blood and new ideas, leaders with the backbone to fight for what’s right,” Porter said in her announcement video. “That’s why I am running for governor.” 

Porter has spent three terms in the House representing a swing district in Southern California. But she recently lost her bid for the Senate, finishing third behind Democratic Sen. Adam Schiff and Republican Steve Garvey. 

“I first ran for office to hold Trump accountable," Porter said. "I feel that same call to serve now to stop him from hurting Californians."

Porter previously said she would support Harris if she decides to run for governor later this year. But Harris has not officially reached a decision so far, and she is also weighing another presidential bid. 

The California primary will take place on June 2, 2026.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.