California’s Political Landscape Shifts as Katie Porter Receives Key Endorsement
Influential Democratic Women’s Group Supports Katie Porter
In a significant development for California’s 2026 gubernatorial race, former Representative Katie Porter of Irvine has secured the endorsement of a leading Democratic women’s organization that champions candidates who support abortion rights. This endorsement is expected to provide Porter with substantial funding and grassroots support, enhancing her campaign efforts.
Porter’s Track Record of Advocacy
Jessica Mackler, president of the influential group known as EMILYs List, expressed strong support for Porter. “Katie Porter has spent her career holding the powerful accountable, fighting to lower costs, and challenging Wall Street and Trump administration officials to achieve positive results for California’s working families,” Mackler stated. Amidst attacks from former President Trump and his allies on California’s healthcare, Mackler emphasized Porter’s leadership as essential for the state.
About EMILYs List
The organization’s name, EMILYs List, stands for “Early Money Is Like Yeast,” highlighting the crucial role of early financial backing for female candidates. Established four decades ago, the group focuses on supporting Democratic women who advocate for legal abortion rights. To date, EMILYs List has raised nearly $950 million to aid candidates nationwide, playing a pivotal role in Porter’s successful congressional campaign, which flipped a GOP district in Orange County.
Rising Opportunities and Challenges
Katie Porter, reflecting on her association with EMILYs List, remarked, “There’s nothing that Donald Trump hates more than facing down a strong, powerful woman. EMILYs List has a history of backing winners, helping to elect prochoice Democratic women to public office.” Porter credits the organization with aiding her historic victory in 2018 and expressed confidence in a repeat success.
Uncertain Financial Commitment and Upcoming Races
However, it remains unclear to what extent EMILYs List will financially back Porter’s gubernatorial bid. The group is also expected to focus on critical congressional races next year that could determine control of the House.
The Open Gubernatorial Race
With Governor Gavin Newsom stepping down due to term limits and former Vice President Kamala Harris out of the race, the 2026 gubernatorial election presents a wideopen field. Other potential candidates include Sen. Alex Padilla and businessman Rick Caruso. Currently, Porter holds a slight lead in the polls among the Democratic hopefuls.
Impact of Toni Atkins’ Withdrawal
The decision by EMILYs List to endorse Porter came after former state Senate leader Toni Atkins withdrew from the race in late September. Meanwhile, former state Controller Betty Yee continues to be a gubernatorial candidate, adding to the competitive landscape.