Just one week after former Vice President Kamala Harris opted out of running to be the Governor of California, another top Democrat has removed herself from the race.

Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, who was the first candidate to jump in the race, announced Friday that she is running for State Treasurer instead.

Flashback: Kounalakis announced her run for the 2026 election to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom in April 2023, far ahead of any other candidates.

What she’s saying: “This decision was not made lightly,” Kounalakis said in a statement. “Over the course of my campaign for governor, I have had the opportunity to engage with Californians across the state – listening to their concerns, hopes, and ideas for a stronger, more equitable future.” • She said she believes she can make the greatest

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