Democrat Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) is set to return to the Senate on Wednesday after a three-month absence due to health problems. Her absence from the Senate Judiciary Committee had left the panel deadlocked at 10-10, forcing Democrats to try and temporarily replace her. With Feinstein's return, Democrats can now move forward with stalled judiciary business and key votes.
Feinstein has disputed that her absence has limited the number of nominees advanced by the committee, stating: "When I return, I will be able to move the remaining qualified nominees out of committee quickly and onto the floor for a vote." This comes as a relief for Democrats who have been facing pressure regarding President Joe Biden's judicial picks as well as controversies involving Supreme Court justices failing to disclose gifts or significant financial activity.
In addition, Sen. Feinstein's return could mean movement on some stalled Biden appointees such as California's own Julie Su, who has been nominated for secretary of labor.
"Senator Feinstein's presence in Washington is crucial not only for our state but also for advancing important legislation," said California Governor Gavin Newsom. "We're glad she's back."
Feinstein arrived at the Senate in a wheelchair and stated that she would work on a lighter schedule due to side effects from shingles which contributed to her lengthy absence. During this time away from Washington D.C., she missed almost 100 votes leading some groups and individuals within her party calling upon her resignation over concerns it could hold up confirmations of President Joe Biden’s judges.
Nonetheless, several Democratic politicians are already considering running in November 2024 election should Sen. Feinstein decide not seek re-election or resign before completing her term – marking an intense race ahead if such situation arises since there hasn't been any vacancy concerning California senatorial seats in over three decades.