Topline
Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) said in a statement Thursday she has been hospitalized in San Francisco due to shingles, in the latest blow for Democrats, who have been without Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) for weeks as he battles with “severe” depression at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
Key Facts
Feinstein, 89, said she expects to “make a full recovery” from shingles—which is non-life threatening but often painful—and hopes to return to the Senate later in the month.
The extended absence of two senators effectively eliminates the Senate’s Democratic majority for the time being, which stood at 51-49 in favor of Democrats after the midterm elections.
It is unclear when Fetterman will return—a spokesman said Monday “there’s no real news to report” except that the senator “remains on a path to recovery.”
What To Watch For
The absences’ most immediate impact will be complicating ongoing confirmations for President Joe Biden’s court nominees. Vice President Kamala Harris has had to break two Senate ties for court nominees this week.
Key Background
Feinstein is the oldest member of the Senate and her health has long been a concern for Democrats—particularly rumors of declining mental fitness, which the Senator has repeatedly denied. Feinstein’s office said last month she will not run for reelection in 2024, ending speculation she’d seek another term and opening up what’s expected to be one of the most hotly contested Senate seats in 2024. Democratic Reps. Adam Schiff, Barbara Lee and Katie Porter are among those running for the open seat.
Further Reading
Sen. Fetterman Hospitalized For ‘Severe’ Depression (Forbes)
Lawmakers Say Dianne Feinstein’s Mental Fitness Rapidly Worsening, Report Claims (Forbes)
California Sen. Dianne Feinstein, 89, Will Not Seek Reelection (Forbes)
Source link