California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced Sunday he will not seek the governorship of California, citing the importance of his current role in challenging the policies of the Trump administration.
Bonta Cites Ongoing Legal Battles
Bonta stated his decision stems from a belief that he can exert greater influence as Attorney General in combating what he described as “vicious, inhumane, unlawful, cruel attacks” from the Trump administration. He specifically referenced actions taken by the Trump administration in Venezuela, attempts to block welfare funds to Democratic-led states, and the fatal shooting of a Minnesota mother of three by a federal immigration agent as factors influencing his choice.
Appointed to the position in 2021 by Governor Gavin Newsom after Xavier Becerra joined the Biden administration, the 53-year-old Bonta previously served as a state lawmaker representing Oakland, Alameda, and San Leandro. He was the first Filipino American to serve in the California Legislature.
A Shifting Political Landscape
Bonta had initially considered a run for governor, and revisited the possibility after both former Vice President Kamala Harris and Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) announced they would not be candidates. However, he ultimately concluded his efforts would be more impactful remaining as Attorney General. He noted the race had become “fundamentally different” after those announcements.
The race for governor remains open as Governor Newsom is term-limited and is considering a run for president in 2028. Former Rep. Katie Porter, once considered a frontrunner, experienced a dip in polling numbers following the release of videos showing contentious interactions with staff and reporters. Recent polls indicate no candidate currently holds a majority of support.
Bonta stated he has no immediate plans to endorse a candidate, but believes the race is “dynamic” and anticipates further shifts and potentially new entrants.
Recent scrutiny has focused on approximately $468,000 in campaign funds Bonta spent on legal advice related to an investigation into alleged corruption involving former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao and businessmen David Trung Duong and Andy Hung Duong. Bonta has since returned $155,000 in contributions from the Duong family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Bonta to reconsider a run for governor?
The decisions of former Vice President Kamala Harris and Senator Alex Padilla not to run for governor led Bonta to reconsider his own position, though he ultimately decided to remain Attorney General.
What is Bonta’s primary justification for not running for governor?
Bonta believes his role as Attorney General allows him to more effectively challenge the policies of the Trump administration, which he views as detrimental to Californians.
Has Bonta faced any recent controversies?
Bonta has faced questions regarding approximately $468,000 in campaign funds spent on legal advice related to an investigation into alleged corruption in Oakland.
Given the open field of candidates and the strong anti-Trump sentiment in California, what kind of candidate do you think is best positioned to succeed Gavin Newsom?
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