Former Representative Katie Porter has gained a significant endorsement from a leading Democratic women’s organization as she prepares to run for Governor of California in 2026. This group, EMILY’s List, primarily supports candidates advocating for abortion rights, and is poised to bolster Porter’s campaign through financial contributions and grassroots support.
EMILY’s List Endorsement
On Monday, Jessica Mackler, the president of EMILY’s List, praised Porter’s commitment to accountability and her efforts to aid California’s working families. Mackler stated, “Katie Porter has spent her career holding the powerful accountable, fighting to lower costs and taking on Wall Street.”
Impact of the Endorsement
- EMILY’s List has raised nearly $950 million to support pro-choice Democratic women across the country.
- The organization has played a crucial role in electing women to office, including helping Porter flip a Republican district in Orange County during her congressional campaign.
Porter expressed confidence in the endorsement, highlighting the group’s history of supporting successful female candidates, especially when facing political opposition. “There’s nothing that Donald Trump hates more than facing down a strong, powerful woman,” she remarked.
2026 Gubernatorial Race Landscape
The race for California’s governorship is particularly competitive as it prepares to replace the termed-out Governor Gavin Newsom. Notably, former Vice President Kamala Harris will not be running, and other significant figures like Senator Alex Padilla and businessman Rick Caruso are still considering their options.
Polling and Competition
Currently, Porter holds a slight lead over other Democratic candidates as they gear up for the primary scheduled for June. EMILY’s List made its choice to endorse Porter after former state Senate leader Toni Atkins exited the race in late September, allowing the field to become clearer.
Despite the endorsement, it remains uncertain how much EMILY’s List will invest in Porter’s campaign, especially with other vital congressional races also demanding the organization’s resources. Former state Controller Betty Yee is another candidate vying for the gubernatorial position.
This endorsement could be pivotal for Porter as she aims to become California’s first female governor. With the backing of EMILY’s List, her campaign could gain the momentum necessary to secure a victory in the highly anticipated 2026 race.
