Katie Porter’s Gubernatorial Aspirations in Question

The future of former Rep. Katie Porter’s run for governor appears unsure following the release of two videos that reinforce ongoing rumors about her being an impatient and difficult boss.

Political strategists from both parties suggest that Porter’s reactions over the next few days could significantly impact her chances in the 2026 race to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom, whose term concludes soon.

Christine Pelosi, a noted Democratic figure from the Bay Area and daughter of ex-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, remarked, “We’ve all had tough days. None of us want to showcase our worst moments, right? Who wants their less-than-ideal boss behavior or personal slip-ups documented?”

She added, “What happens next is key,” noting her prior backing of former Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis before withdrawing from that contest.

Currently positioned as a frontrunner in polls for the 2026 gubernatorial race, Porter has faced considerable backlash after an audio clip emerged in which she reacts sharply to reporters’ inquiries and threatens to cease a television interview. When CBS reporter Julie Watts asked Porter about the 6.1 million Californians who supported President Trump, Porter stated she wouldn’t require their backing if facing Republicans in the November runoff.

Following a follow-up question from Watts, Porter labeled her as “unnecessarily argumentative,” gesturing towards the reporter’s face and stating, “I don’t want everything to be on camera.”

The following day, another video surfaced from 2021, showing Porter reprimanding her staff for clarifying information about electric vehicles during a discussion with Biden administration officials. “Stay out of my shot!” she snapped as a young woman entered the video call’s frame. This incident was initially reported by a news outlet.

Porter opted not to respond to several interview requests but did release a statement regarding the 2021 video, emphasizing, “I hold myself and my staff to high standards, especially as a Congress member. I’m working on expressing more gratitude for my staff’s essential work.”

After the video went viral and was featured in national news and programs like “The View,” several of Porter’s backers rallied in her support.

Peter Finn and Chris Griswold, co-chairs of Teamsters California, which supports Porter and represents a significant workforce, issued a statement highlighting the need for strong leaders like her, especially in challenging times. They criticized the expectation of civility from politicians overwhelmed by opposition.

Support also came from groups like EMILY’s List, which backs Democratic women advocating for abortion rights, and U.S. Rep. Dave Minn, who previously held Porter’s seat.

Lorena Gonzalez, president of the California Federation of Labor, alluded to rumors prior to the video release about powerful Democrats and corporate forces wishing to oust Porter and introduce another candidate into the fray.

Gonzalez stated, “What’s become clear is that Katie Porter’s readiness to confront powerful interests makes her a target for those who feel threatened by change.”

There appears to be a deliberate move to encourage Sen. Alex Padilla to join the gubernatorial race, though he has indicated he will make no decisions until after voters address a relevant measure on the November ballot.

Porter’s future intentions may become clearer based on her participation in two upcoming events. One is a virtual forum with the California Working Families Party, and the other is a live Q&A session at the University of California.

Other Democratic candidates in the 2026 gubernatorial race have also harnessed the negative publicity surrounding Porter. Former Secretary of State Betty Yee has called on Porter to exit the race, while opponents like Stephen Krubeck and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa have used the situation to launch criticisms against her.

Former Sen. Barbara Boxer reflected on her own experiences, noting that she recognized the same traits of anger and entitlement in Porter as were seen in her own political past. She mentioned, “That experience left me with a bad taste in my mouth. This video reveals everything we need to know about her: she’s unfit for Congress.” Boxer emphasized that, despite differences, she always maintained respect for her staff during her lengthy career, underscoring the importance of mutual respect in any relationship.

Veteran Republican strategist Beth Miller pointed out that women in politics often face different expectations from voters, though she noted these standards have evolved. “While these incidents can perpetuate stigmas, they can sadly also hold women back, emphasizing concerns people already have.” Miller observed the contrasting ways Porter responded in interviews and her tough approach to questioning CEOs and government officials, suggesting that people often behave differently depending on the circumstances.

She concluded, “The governor of California isn’t an easy role; this incident likely hasn’t helped her cause. It offers a glimpse into her character.”