Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) announced on Wednesday that her return to work in Washington has been delayed due to ongoing health complications and called on the Senate to appoint a temporary replacement for her on the Judiciary Committee. Feinstein has been sidelined since late February after being diagnosed with shingles, and her absence has left Democrats working at an even 49-49 at best during that time.
At the moment, there are 14 pending judicial nominees who have had hearings before the panel but have not received a vote by the committee. Her announcement comes hours after Reps. Ro Khanna and Dean Phillips (D) called for her resignation from the chamber.
Feinstein was hospitalized last month after contracting shingles and was released a week later, saying she expected to make a full recovery and return to the Senate “as soon as possible.” However, some Democrats have expressed concern that she may never return.
In response to these concerns, Sen. Feinstein said she still intends to return to Washington once her medical team clears her for travel and will continue working from home in San Francisco until then.
The senator's request for a temporary replacement requires approval from both parties in order for someone else to fill in while she recovers from shingles-related issues. A full Senate must approve with at least 60 votes; however, Republicans currently hold 49 seats which could potentially complicate matters.
As of now, no decision regarding this request or potential replacements is available as discussions between party leaders continue.
Feinstein is currently serving as one of California’s longest-serving senators since taking office back in November 1992.