Due to her continued health issues, California Democrat Dianne Feinstein said late Wednesday that she has asked Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer of New York to replace her on the Judiciary Committee with another Democrat senator.
Feinstein, who is 89 years old, has been experiencing health issues for quite some time. She was hospitalised with shingles a month ago.
“When I was first told I had shingles, I thought I would be back at work by the end of March,” she added. “I’ve had to postpone my visit to the nation’s capital because I’m still having trouble with my diagnosis.”
Feinstein has stated that she would return as soon as her health permits it. She claims that she is currently operating out of San Francisco.
Aware that her absence “could slow down the important work of the Judiciary Committee,” she stated, “I know that my absence could slow down that work.” So, I’ve requested Senate Minority Leader Schumer to petition the chamber to fill my committee seat temporarily with another Democrat.
Earlier today, California Democrat Ro Khanna pushed Feinstein to step down, claiming it’s “obvious” she can’t do her job in the Senate. Feinstein made her observation for this same reason.
Khanna tweeted, “It’s time for @SenFeinstein to step down.” The requirements of our country must come before those of any individual. She has dedicated her life to helping others, yet it is obvious that she is no longer able to accomplish her job.
“If we don’t speak up, it hurts our credibility as people’s representatives,” he said.
Later, Democratic Minnesota lawmaker Dean Phillips tweeted, “I agree with @RoKhanna.”
“Senator Feinstein is an incredible American who has done so much for our country,” he said. “But I think it’s now a failure of duty to stay in the Senate,” she said, “and it’s also a failure of duty to agree to stay quiet.”