U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein will not participate in race for re-election to post
2023.02.15 09:25
U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein will not participate in race for re-election to post
By Tiffany Smith
Budrigannews.com – Dianne Feinstein, a pioneer for women in American politics, made the announcement on Tuesday that she will not run for re-election in 2024, paving the way for a competitive race among California Democrats for her seat.
Feinstein, 89, is the oldest member of Congress and was first elected to the Senate in 1992. She had denied lawmakers’ claims that her memory had deteriorated and had been subjected to pressure to resign in recent years.
She said in a statement, “I am announcing today I will not run for reelection in 2024 but intend to accomplish as much for California as I can through the end of my term next year.”
She stated to reporters, “There are times for everything under the sun, and I think that will be the right time.”
Feinstein, who on Tuesday refused to endorse a replacement, had pioneered the role of women in American politics: the first woman to lead the Senate Judiciary Committee, the first to lead San Francisco as mayor, and the longest-serving female senator.
I’ve worked for more U.S. senators than anyone else. Dianne Feinstein is one of the very best, and I can honestly say that,” said Democratic President Joe Biden on Tuesday night, referring to their time working together on the Senate Judiciary Committee.
California is home to numerous up-and-coming politicians who will target Feinstein’s seat because the state consistently votes Democratic.
Before she made her announcement, Democratic Representatives Katie Porter and Adam Schiff had either made or suggested runs. On March 5, 2024, primary elections will be held in California.
Reporters were informed by Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer that Feinstein received a standing ovation that lasted “minutes and minutes” following her emotional address to her fellow Senate Democrats at a weekly lunch.
He said, “She’s a legend.” She was the leader on numerous issues, including women’s rights, assault weapons, the environment, and many others.
This year, it was anticipated that Feinstein would hold the position of president pro tempore—the ceremonial head of the Senate and third in line to the presidency, usually held by a senior senator from the majority party.
Months after Schumer refused to say whether he was confident in her ability to serve, she decided not to apply for the position. Instead, 72-year-old Senator Patty Murray was appointed to the position.
Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren told reporters on Tuesday that Feinstein “was a tough woman on the front lines in fights like access to assault weapons and national security and intelligence.” Dianne Feinstein owes a special debt to every other female politician.
Despite the fact that Democrats are expected to retain control of the California Senate seat, 2024 races in Arizona, Montana, Ohio, and West Virginia pose challenges to the Democrats’ ability to maintain their Senate majority into 2025 due to the strength of Republicans in those states.
