Gov. Newsom to Pick Senate Replacement for Dianne Feinstein
Newsom's Dilemma]
As California mourns the death of Senator Dianne Feinstein, Governor Gavin Newsom faces a politically fraught decision.
He must appoint a replacement to serve out the remainder of Feinstein's term.
This appointment could upend California's Senate primary, which features high-profile Democratic candidates like Adam Schiff, Katie Porter, and Barbara Lee.
With a government shutdown looming, Newsom may feel pressure to name a replacement quickly to give Democrats an additional vote for passing spending legislation.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has already spoken with Newsom about the appointment.
A source close to Newsom says he will announce an interim appointment for Feinstein's seat in the coming days.
Newsom has previously pledged to select a Black woman to fill any future vacancies.
However, he clarified that the interim appointment would not seek election to another full term.
This decision has drawn criticism from Barbara Lee, who called it mere tokenism.
Lee argues that a temporary appointment of a Black woman would not adequately represent the perspective of Black women in the Senate.
Despite the controversy, Newsom's appointment could be Lee's best shot at winning the Senate seat, as Schiff and Porter are currently ahead in polling and fundraising.
Regardless of whom Newsom appoints, California's "jungle primary" system means that the two leading candidates of any party in the March primary will advance to the general election.
This means that two Democrats may face off in November, given the state's liberal lean.
Additionally, Newsom's appointment could trigger a new round of political musical chairs in California, as candidates compete for the House seats left behind by Schiff, Porter, and Lee.
While the political fallout of Feinstein's death remains uncertain, for now, the focus is on honoring her legacy.
Governor Newsom expressed his deep sadness and condolences to Feinstein's family, highlighting her strength, gravitas, and fierceness.


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