What impact Sen. Feinstein’s death could have nationally
California Gov. Gavin Newsom is expected to pick a replacement soon
NEW YORK (AP) — The death of U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein leaves a vacancy in the Senate at a time when her Democrats have the smallest majority in the chamber.
Feinstein, a centrist Democrat who has represented California since 1992, has been dealing with medical issues in recent months, prompting speculation about whether she would resign and who would take her place.
Governor Gavin Newsom of California is expected to name a replacement soon. The election to select the state’s next senator for a full six-year term is set for next year.
Here’s what Feinstein’s death means for the Senate at this critical juncture on Capitol Hill:
HOW DOES IT AFFECT SENATE CONTROL?
Democrats held a 51-49 majority before Feinstein’s death. They held 48 seats, plus three independents who generally voted with Democrats. Democrats will be at least one vote short of a majority until her seat is filled, putting their priorities at risk. There are no major votes scheduled in the Senate that are expected to be completely partisan.
FEINSTEIN’S SENATE SEAT WILL BE FILLED IN WHAT MANNER?
Newsom, a Democrat, has the authority to appoint a replacement for the remainder of her term, which expires in January 2025.
The race to succeed her in the fall 2024 election is already underway, with a March primary scheduled.
HOW LONG WILL SHE BE AVAILABLE?
It’s unclear how quickly Newsom will move to find a replacement. When then-Sen. Kamala Harris left her seat after being elected vice president in 2020, it remained vacant for about two weeks until Newsom appointed then-Secretary of State Alex Padilla.
IS THERE ANY EFFECT ON THE IMMINENT SHUTDOWN?
It’s unlikely that Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and his Republican caucus will suddenly side with House Republicans pushing for a shutdown, but if that happens, it could make Democratic votes on a shutdown more difficult.
