Harris said Democratic candidates should do “whatever” it takes to win in November, including asking her to stay off the campaign trail.
Politico reported some Democrats want distance because Harris remains a polarizing party figure, especially in conservative-leaning states where candidates are trying to avoid establishment baggage.
In Iowa, Josh Turek and Rob Sand have publicly rejected her help, while Alaska Senate candidate Mary Peltola distanced herself after Harris’ PAC sent a fundraising email; Republicans tied Peltola to Harris, who lost Alaska by 14 points in 2024.
Not all candidates are avoiding her: Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff has embraced Harris’ endorsement, fundraising help and recorded video calls.
Harris said she still expects to campaign where wanted and framed the 2026 midterms as more urgent than any 2028 presidential plans: “’28 doesn’t matter if we don’t win ’26.”