Senator Dianne Feinstein, who passed away last night at the age of 90, embarked on one of the most extraordinary political journeys in American history. However, her final years were marred by unpleasant circumstances.
While it may be considered too early to bring this up, Feinstein has received the tributes she deserves upon her official announcement of death today. These tributes highlighted her accomplishments, such as stepping in as the mayor of San Francisco after her predecessor was assassinated in 1978. She was also recognized as a fervent advocate for gun safety, the longest-serving woman in the Senate, and the oldest member of the chamber. Additionally, as chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, she oversaw the preparation of a damning report on the CIA’s use of torture in secret prisons around the world. Feinstein was undoubtedly a trailblazer, stateswoman, powerhouse, force, and grande dame. She truly made her mark and should be acknowledged for it.
However, the harsh reality of Congress and its zero-sum politics often overshadows even the most legendary figures. In her final year, Feinstein’s declining health became a bleak sideshow, with absences, hospitalizations, and various health issues. Lawsuits over her late husband’s estate and concerns about her medical bills and long-term care only added to the difficulties. These factors complicated matters for Democrats and made it harder for them to proceed with voting, strategizing, and confirming judicial appointments. Colleagues and White House officials expressed their frustrations in whispers. Feinstein became a prime example of a fundamental principle in lawmaking – even the most legendary individuals ultimately come down to just one vote. The most important duty is to be available, show up, and be counted.
When doubts arise about one’s ability to fulfill this duty, patience wears thin, and questions about “fitness” start to surface. This is the price paid for remaining in the senior center of the Capitol. Feinstein resisted stepping down for years and only recently stated that she wouldn’t seek reelection in 2024. This decision has left the race to succeed her in a state of uncertainty.
Politics operates on its own timetable and follows its own rules. Recently, I asked Adam Schiff, a California House Democrat running to replace Feinstein, whether she should retire. I questioned whether she was fit to serve. While this may have seemed harsh, it had become a common query in both Washington and California due to the tight split in the Senate. Schiff, opting for a practical response, stated, “It’s her decision to make.” He expressed concern that Republicans would refuse to fill her seat on the Judiciary Committee, potentially jeopardizing Joe Biden’s judicial appointments. (Politico reported that Republican Whip John Thune of South Dakota expects his party to not resist filling committee seats left vacant by Feinstein’s death.)
Schiff also noted that he continued to have a productive working relationship with Feinstein’s office despite her health challenges. He believed in carrying on with business as usual for as long as possible, as long as Feinstein was still present. Amidst the ongoing drama and chaos in the government, the show went on, with House Republicans potentially facing impeachment.
In the aftermath of Feinstein’s death, Washington paused for a brief moment of solemn respect. Pre-prepared statements and obituaries were released, and then attention shifted to the next pressing matters. Who would California Governor Gavin Newsom choose to serve out Feinstein’s term? How would this selection impact the upcoming race to succeed her? And who would replace Feinstein on the Judiciary Committee, and when would they be seated?
The lingering questions about how long the nonagenarian senator would remain in office have finally been answered. Far too often, individuals in positions of power resist the option of a peaceful conclusion. The stakes can be high and even harrowing for the country. These sagas may be distressing to witness, but they never fail to captivate our dark fascination. Lingering for too long puts one at risk of losing control over the final act. It can happen to the best of them, even after the most extraordinary careers.
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