Attorney General Rob Bonta Emerges in Conversation for Governor

Noah Berger / AP Photo

By San Diego Monitor News Staff

Rumors are growing louder across California’s political landscape that Attorney General Rob Bonta may be eyeing a run for governor in 2026. The speculation has picked up momentum in recent weeks, fueled in part by the decisions of Kamala Harris and Alex Padilla — two Democrats long viewed as potential contenders — to stay out of the race. Their absence has left an opening that some observers believe Bonta may now be well-positioned to fill. For months, insiders had quietly suggested that Bonta would likely support Harris or Padilla if either chose to run. With both opting out, political strategists say the Democratic field feels suddenly more fluid, creating fresh opportunities for other high-profile figures to enter the conversation. Given Bonta’s statewide recognition and tenure as attorney general, his name has naturally risen toward the top of speculative lists.

Adding to the reshuffling, U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell recently announced his entry into the race, injecting additional energy and complexity into an already dynamic contest. Swalwell, known nationally for his work on national security and his role in high-profile congressional investigations, brings a distinct voice to the field and a strong fundraising operation. His decision to run has further heightened interest in how other prominent Democrats — including Bonta — might respond to the shifting political environment.

The current roster of confirmed candidates, according to public filings, includes former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, former U.S. Representative Katie Porter, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former State Controller Betty Yee, and several additional hopefuls who have formally declared their intent to seek the governorship. While the field is already sizable, many analysts note that it lacks a clear front-runner — an unusual circumstance in a state where early favorites typically emerge quickly.

Against this backdrop, political observers say Bonta’s potential entry could significantly alter the race. As attorney general, he has led high-visibility efforts on consumer protection, environmental enforcement, gun safety, and corporate accountability — issues that resonate strongly with California’s Democratic electorate. His statewide office, combined with his growing national profile, offers the kind of platform that past gubernatorial candidates have successfully leveraged into competitive campaigns.

It is important to note there has been no official indication from Bonta regarding his intentions. Yet the mere possibility of his candidacy has sparked conversations among Democratic organizers, community leaders, and donors who are watching closely to see how the evolving landscape shapes up.

With no incumbent in the race and no singular figure dominating early polling, 2026 has the potential to become one of the most unpredictable and wide-open gubernatorial contests California has seen in decades.

For now, the political world is left to speculate. Whether Rob Bonta ultimately steps forward or decides to stay out, the interest surrounding his next move underscores how fluid — and consequential — this race may become as the state gradually approaches the 2026 election season.