Former California Democratic Representative Katie Porter announced that she is stepping away from politics for the time being and will focus on book reviewing. This decision follows her unsuccessful campaign for the Democratic nomination for California governor.
In an Instagram video, Porter stated, "I’m done for now with politics and campaigning," and expressed her long-standing passion for reading, which she finds to be a source of solace and joy. She plans to rebrand her account as 'Katie Porter turns the page,' where she will share book recommendations and author content.
Porter referenced a recent incident involving a leaked video that showed her inappropriately addressing a staff member, which contributed to her decline in the gubernatorial race. She acknowledged her mistakes, stating, "I could have done better in that situation. I know that. I really want my staff to understand that I value them."
Xavier Becerra, the former Health and Human Services Secretary, won the Democratic nomination with 28% of the vote, while Porter received just over 4%. At one point in the campaign, she had polled at 21%.
Porter, who was elected to the House of Representatives in 2019, was known for her progressive stance and her role as deputy chairwoman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus. She previously ran for California’s open Senate seat in 2025 but lost to Adam Schiff in the Democratic primary.