By Sam Barron | Tuesday, 04 November 2025 09:21 PM EST
Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., announced he will not be running for governor next year, stating his commitment to remain in the Senate. “I choose not just to stay in the Senate,” Padilla said Tuesday at the Capitol. “I choose to stay in this fight because the Constitution is worth fighting for. Our fundamental rights are worth fighting for. Our core values are worth fighting for. The American dream is worth fighting for.”
California’s gubernatorial race remains uncertain following leaked videos of presumed front-runner Katie Porter criticizing a reporter and a staff member. Gov. Gavin Newsom, term-limited and ineligible for reelection, has left the field open. Padilla highlighted his clash with Department of Homeland Security officials during a briefing led by DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, where he interrupted proceedings. “As alarming as that experience was not just for me and our family, but for most people who have seen the video, countless people have told me, ‘I’m glad you’re fighting for us. I’m glad you’re there,'” he said.
Padilla, appointed to the Senate after Kamala Harris became vice president, previously served as California secretary of state. Other potential Democratic candidates include Rep. Eric Swalwell and billionaire Tom Steyer, though Porter faces scrutiny over her progressive policies, lack of state government experience, and treatment of staff. Harris has also declined to enter the race.
Sam Barron has nearly two decades of experience covering politics, crime, and business.
