Sen. Dianne Feinstein's (D-CA) extended absence from the Senate has thrown a wrench into Democrats’ efforts to methodically advance President Biden’s judicial nominees, stalling a key priority for the administration in the process. With 15 judicial nominees already having had hearings but waiting to be voted out of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and six additional nominees awaiting hearings before the panel, progress on this front remains slow.
Republicans have blocked a proposal to replace Feinstein on the Judiciary Committee while she recovers from shingles. As a result, attendance issues are slowing down the panel's work and leaving these potential appointees in limbo.
Rep. Dean Phillips (D-Minn) has revealed that “countless” congressional lawmakers have privately said that Senator Feinstein should resign due to her health concerns but hesitate expressing their opinions publicly for fear of backlash within their party ranks.
Phillips also criticized former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s comments claiming that growing calls for Feinstein to step down were sexist and politically motivated. California Gov. Gavin Newsom stated he would appoint a Black woman to fill Feinstein’s seat if she retires early.
Meanwhile, Rep. Phillips expressed his desire for competition against President Joe Biden during the 2024 Democratic presidential nomination race as well.
Feinstein has been absent from her duties since early March this year, causing delays in approving several of President Joe Biden’s judicial nominees through committee channels before they can face full Senate confirmation votes.
Among those affected is one nominee who could become the first black woman federal judge on U.S District Court for Eastern District of Washington if confirmed once approved by committee members when proceedings resume after Sen.Feinstein returns or suitable replacement becomes available . This individual joins Michael Farbiarz , Robert Kirsch ,and Michael Gaston - all nominated candidates seeking appointment within New Jersey district courts