Los Angeles: Former Vice President Kamala Harris is set to deliver a high-profile speech on Wednesday, sharply criticising President Donald Trump amid speculation over whether she will pursue another presidential campaign or opt to run for California governor.

Harris will speak at the 20th anniversary gala for Emerge America, an organisation that recruits and trains Democratic women to run for office, which partly grew from Harris' campaign for San Francisco district attorney in the early 2000s.

First major remarks since leaving office

Her speech comes a day after Trump marked 100 days in office. It is expected to be her most extensive public remarks since leaving office in January following her defeat to Trump, with planned critiques of the Republican president's handling of the economy, US institutions, and foreign policy.

Increased public presence

Harris is increasing her public appearances as Democrats nationwide search for a path forward after November's election, in which Republicans also gained control of Congress. While several high-profile Democrats — from governors to businessmen — seek leadership roles within the party, the former vice president retains significant influence and could reshape any future race she chooses to enter.

Speculation about future campaigns

Harris, a former state attorney general and US senator from California, has not discouraged speculation that she might run to replace term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom, himself a potential presidential contender. She has also not ruled out another bid for the White House.

Continued fundraising efforts

She continues to fundraise, using a joint committee that includes Harris for President, the Democratic National Committee, and state Democratic parties. The committee, known as the Harris Victory Fund, reported having about USD 4.5 million on hand at the end of March, according to federal records.

In recent fundraising emails, Harris has emphasised the need for Democrats to unify ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Democrats need to "organise and stop Trump's agenda while electing Democrats everywhere," she wrote in the emails.

"There has never been a more important time for a strong Democratic Party — one that is willing to stand up to Donald Trump, Elon Musk and what they are doing to this country."

The event will also mark a homecoming of sorts. Harris, who lives in Los Angeles, is originally from the San Francisco Bay Area.

AP Inputs