Numerous individuals are pressing for the retirement of Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), aged 89, out of concern for her well-being. Recently, the senator experienced an extended absence due to a bout of shingles, and upon her return, she required the assistance of a wheelchair.
However, the impact on President Joe Biden’s court nominations does not trouble Hillary Clinton regarding Senator Feinstein’s health. The former first lady voiced her belief that the potential loss would not be a worthy tradeoff if Feinstein were to step down.
In an interview with Time at the Chicago Humanities Festival, Clinton expressed her thoughts on her long-time colleague and friend, Dianne Feinstein. She acknowledged Feinstein’s struggle with a severe case of shingles and encephalitis, which caused her significant pain. It’s important to note that the people of California recently re-elected her, recognizing her remarkable leadership and understanding why she received their votes.
Republican senators were not willing to replace Feinstein on the Senate Judiciary Committee to accommodate Biden’s judicial selections.
Clinton pointed out the problem, stating that if Feinstein retired, “the Republicans would refuse to appoint another member to the Judiciary Committee.” Reflect on how unfortunate that is. I want you to consider it. Whether she will retire eventually is uncertain, but presently, she cannot do so. If we are to fulfill one of our vital ongoing responsibilities, which is to confirm judges, we cannot afford to leave her seat vacant.
As usual, Clinton assigned blame to the GOP.
She suggested that if Republicans were to argue, “Well, this woman was seriously ill and just lost her husband to cancer,” as a gesture of courtesy, they would be allowed to fill the position if she retired. However,” she added, “they would never admit it. We are left perplexed; what should we do? People are attempting to force her into retirement, and if that occurs, what will follow? In my opinion, that’s hardly an equitable trade.
Clinton also advocated against imposing an upper age limit or term limits for Congress members.
Do not vote for someone you don’t wish to see elected. However, do not subject voters to unnecessary hurdles. I am not persuaded by this debate. Some of it seems to be aimed indirectly at Joe Biden, and frankly, I don’t comprehend the underlying motives of many individuals supporting it. Additionally, she commended Joe Biden, remarking, “I believe he has done an excellent job.”
One Democratic senator is taking a risk by demanding Clinton’s resignation despite her partisan stance.
Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) emailed SFGATE, stating, “I hold Senator Feinstein in high regard, and I wish her a successful return and recovery.” Nevertheless, I remain firm in my call for her retirement.
Khanna told POLITICO after Feinstein’s recent return, “I stand by my previous statement because three months is a significant absence without any clarity,” but he added, “Considering the circumstances, I am hopeful.” What matters to me is her ability to carry out her duties, so I’m giving her the benefit of the doubt.
When questioned about her prolonged absence and her colleagues’ reaction upon her return, Khanna recently reached out to the senator, who has been in politics for 53 years.
“No, I haven’t been absent,” Slate reportedly quoted her saying. In essence, she stated, “You should keep up—I haven’t been absent; I’ve been working.”
A reporter asked if she had been telecommuting.
“No, I have been here,” she declared, emphasizing her active participation in voting. She responded by saying, “Please, either you know or you don’t.”
The perspectives expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Steadfast Loyalty.