Following a Wednesday report saying Sen. Dianne Feinstein might never return to Washington, the California Democrat confirmed that she asked for a temporary replacement to her Judiciary Committee seat amid a leave of absence over health issues.
Politico reported that several Democrats who are close to the senator and top-ranking congressional aides are losing confidence that Feinstein will ever return to Capitol Hill.
The news comes hours after Democratic Reps. Ro Khanna of California and Dean Phillips of Minnesota called on Feinstein, 89, to resign for missing votes since undergoing treatment for shingles in February.
"Unfortunately, my return to Washington has been delayed due to continued complications related to my diagnosis," stated Feinstein, noting that she initially expected a March return.
"I understand that my absence could delay the important work of the Judiciary Committee, so I've asked [Majority] Leader [Chuck] Schumer to ask the Senate to allow another Democratic senator to temporarily serve until I'm able to resume my committee work," she added.
Feinstein additionally stated that she remains committed to her job in the Senate and "will continue to work from home in San Francisco" until her medical team advises that it is safe for her to travel again.
On Wednesday, Khanna made headlines by calling for Feinstein, who has served in the Senate since 1992, to finally step away.
"We need to put the country ahead of personal loyalty," Khanna tweeted. "While she has had a lifetime of public service, it is obvious she can no longer fulfill her duties. Not speaking out undermines our credibility as elected representatives of the people."
Phillips retweeted Khanna in agreement soon after, writing that he believes it is "now a dereliction of duty to remain in the Senate and a dereliction of duty for those who agree to remain quiet."
Feinstein announced earlier this year that she would not seek reelection in 2024, opening up a contested primary among Democratic Reps. Adam Schiff, Katie Porter, and Barbara Lee.
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