California

California AG Kamala Harris Says She's Not Interested in Eric Holder's Job

California Attorney General Kamala Harris waved off speculation Thursday that she might be next in line to replace U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, who announced Thursday that he will resign after leading the Justice Department for nearly six years.

Harris issued a statement after her name surfaced on lists of possible replacements for Holder’s job, along with candidates such as Solicitor General Don Verrilli, Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick and Deputy U.S. Attorney General James Cole.

“I am honored to even be mentioned, but intend to continue my work for the people of California as Attorney General,” Harris, who is is on the Nov. 4 ballot running for a second term, said in a statement. “I am focused on key public safety issues including transnational gangs, truancy and recidivism.”

Patrick also downplayed his interest, saying the job is "not one for me right now."

President Barack Obama has not yet made a final decision about a replacement for Holder. Holder, the first African-American U.S. Attorney General, bade an emotional goodbye Thursday, thanking the president and his family for their support during his time in office.

Obama said Holder has agreed to stay on until his replacement is confirmed.

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