Schumer unable to give updated time frame on Feinstein return amid judiciary paralysis

Feinstein’s Absence Puts Senate Democrats in a Bind

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) is unable to provide an updated time frame for Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s (D-CA) return from medical leave, leaving Senate Democrats in a precarious position. Feinstein, the oldest member of the Senate at 89, has been absent since being diagnosed with shingles in February. With Democrats holding a slim 51-49 majority, her absence gives Republicans an opportunity to block President Joe Biden’s nominees and legislative efforts.

Pressure Mounts for Feinstein’s Resignation

Tensions over Feinstein’s absence boiled over in mid-April, with two House Democrats calling for her resignation. Reps. Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Dean Phillips (D-MN) cited her health problems as affecting her ability to fulfill her duties. Feinstein has faced questions about her mental acuity for nearly half a decade, with reports of her forgetting conversations with top lawmakers and staff. Her absence has put the most strain on the Senate Judiciary Committee, leaving Democrats without the necessary votes to advance most of Biden’s judicial nominees.

• Feinstein vowed to serve out the remaining 20 months of her term but will not seek reelection in 2024.
• Republicans blocked Schumer’s request to fill Feinstein’s Judiciary Committee seat with Sen. Ben Cardin (D-MD) last week.

Despite Schumer’s hope for her return, the uncertainty surrounding Feinstein’s absence leaves Senate Democrats in limbo.

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