Kamala Harris' Next Moves: Preparing For 2028, Writing Tell-All, Or Hiatus From Politics?

US Vice President Kamala Harris addressed a solemn audience at her alma mater, Howard University, following her loss to Republican rival Donald Trump. She pledged to carry forward the cause that energised her campaign for the US election.

The 60-year-old will step down in 72 days and has not yet announced any immediate plans for her political future. What could be next for Kamala Harris?

Photo Credit: PTI

Preparing for 2028?

The most straightforward option for the former Democratic nominee might be to take some time to prepare for a renewed bid in 2028. There are precedents: John Kerry, the 2004 Democratic nominee, lost to George Bush but stayed active in politics, later serving as Secretary of State in Barack Obama's second term.

Returning to the Senate?

Similar to Kerry, a return to state politics could allow Harris to rebuild her momentum. Yet, the path may not be straightforward. Longtime Democratic donor Mark Buell shared the disappointment felt by many in California, saying, "Everybody is devastated," as reported by the New York Times.

San Francisco-based Republican commentator Richie Greenberg remarked that Harris may find it challenging to secure the same level of fundraising support as before.

A Role in the Democratic Party

Another possible direction could be to act as a spokesperson within the Democratic Party, given her wide recognition and extensive connections. However, Greenberg believes she may encounter difficulties in re-establishing financial backing from her supporters in San Francisco.

Writing a Tell-All Book

Following in the footsteps of former Democratic nominees like Hillary Clinton and Al Gore, Harris might consider writing or similar endeavours. After her own loss to Trump in 2016, Clinton authored 'What Happened', while Gore created the documentary 'An Inconvenient Truth'.

Taking a Break

With only a few months left as Vice President, Harris might also follow through on a promise she made on October 27: "I plan on putting on some pounds after this is over," she said in a Pennsylvania bookstore, adding, "They're working me to the bone."

Harris could follow the approach taken by Clinton, who has been less politically active in recent years, focusing more on her personal life while still maintaining relationships with key donors.