Senator Dianne Feinstein appeared confused during a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing on Thursday. When asked to vote on a proposal, Feinstein began giving a lengthy speech instead of simply saying “aye” or “nay” as requested. The committee chair, Senator Patty Murray, had to repeatedly tell Feinstein “just say aye” and remind her that it was time for a vote, not speeches. After some delay, Feinstein finally cast her vote. A spokesperson said Feinstein was preoccupied and did not realize a vote had been called. The incident raises further concerns about Feinstein’s ability to serve at age 90, as she has made other recent mistakes and often relies on aides.
I can easily see the DNC having Newsom put Shiff in the seat if Feinstein dies (she’s not going out any other way). Then Shiff would be the incumbent and the DNC and Dem voters usually go for the incumbent. Otherwise, they’ll end up with Porter. She makes waves and the boys at the top, they don’t like waves.
Newsom has already said that he wouldn’t appoint Shiff, he quite clearly said a black woman. And his best options there are progressive women, like Waters or Lee.