On Tuesday, Democratic Senator from California Dianne Feinstein said she will not seek reelection in 2024.
In a tweet, she stated, “I am announcing today I will not seek for reelection in 2024, but aim to achieve as much for California as I can through the end of next year when my tenure ends.”
We can still pass measures that enhance people’s lives even with a divided Congress,” Feinstein said.
Feinstein is the oldest senator at 89 years old, and her colleagues have expressed concern about her mental health in recent years.
Representatives Adam Schiff and Katie Porter, both Democrats, have already declared their intention to run against her. It’s also likely that California Democrat Rep. Barbara Lee would enter the campaign.
As we reported earlier this month, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) has backed Schiff for Feinstein’s Senate seat if Feinstein decides not to run for re-election in 2024.
Pelosi, who is still a member of Congress despite having stepped down as speaker, has hailed Feinstein as “iconic” and lauded her “amazing legislative record.”
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) was quoted as calling Feinstein a “legend” after her announcement, praising her for her decades-long dedication to causes including gun control legislation, environmental protection, and women’s rights.