Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) asked Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (DN.Y.) to temporarily replace her on the powerful Judiciary Committee Monday while she recovers from shingles.
“Unfortunately, his return to Washington has been delayed due to complications related to his diagnosis,” the senator said in a statement. “I understand that my absence could delay the important work of the Judiciary Committee, so I am asking Leader Schumer to ask the Senate to allow another Democratic senator to serve temporarily until I can resume committee work.”
Schumer’s spokeswoman said she will request the room next week. Democratic aides said the majority leader could ask for similar approval on the floor to allow a temporary replacement.
“Per Sen. Feinstein wishes, Majority Leader Schumer will ask the Senate next week to allow other Democratic Senators to temporarily serve on the Judiciary Committee,” said a spokesman.
Feinstein, 89, was hospitalized last month after being diagnosed with herpes. He was released a week later, saying he would make a full recovery and return to the Senate “as soon as possible.”
But it hasn’t happened yet. Her absence has stalled the committee’s selection of President Joe Biden’s top nominee, and some Democrats have expressed concern that Feinstein will not return to the Capitol. He has missed 60 votes this year, and his absence is because Democrats have a slim majority in the chamber.
Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) called on the veteran lawmaker to resign on Wednesday, praising his “age of public service” but adding that “it’s clear he can no longer do his job.” Feinstein has said she will leave Congress at the end of her current term in 2024.
The senator said he still wants to return to Washington if the medical team clears him to travel.
“I remain committed to the project and will continue to work from home in San Francisco,” Feinstein added.