FILE - In this Nov. 2, 2018, file photo, California Secretary of State Alex Padilla talks about voting rights and announces new voter registration numbers in San Francisco. The potential ascendancy of Sen. Kamala Harris to the vice presidency next year has kicked off widespread speculation about who might replace her if Democrats seize the White House. Election Day is nearly three months away but California Gov. Gavin Newsom is already being lobbied by hopefuls and numerous names are emerging in the early speculation. One would be Newsom's longtime friend Padilla. He's Hispanic and has proven his electability statewide. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg, File)