Karen Bass suggests Barbara Lee as a potential replacement for Senator Feinstein if she steps down.

Los Angeles Mayor Urges Governor to Consider Rep. Barbara Lee for Senate Seat

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is advocating for the appointment of Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA) to the Senate by Governor Gavin Newsom (D-CA), in the event that Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) decides to resign before her term concludes.

During an appearance on CNN’s State of the Union on Sunday, the Democratic Mayor emphasized that the current vacancy in one of California’s Senate seats is not a pressing concern as long as Feinstein remains in office.

“Well, Barbara Lee was under consideration before [Newsom] made the appointment of Sen. Padilla, who I supported and am excited about. And I absolutely think that he should appoint Barbara Lee, but we’ll see. I mean, Sen. Feinstein is still in office,” Bass said.

“It’s not an issue right now,” she continued.

When questioned by host Jake Tapper about Feinstein’s continued presence in office, Bass deferred to the longtime senator’s decision but expressed concern for her health.

“Should she be in office? I mean, that’s her decision, I worry about her — I worry about her health — but ultimately, of course, that’s her decision to make,” Bass said.

Feinstein, who has served since 1992, has announced her retirement at the end of her current term in 2025. At 89 years old, she holds the distinction of being the oldest senator in the chamber. Earlier this year, Feinstein faced criticism from some Democrats for her extended absence due to shingles, which resulted in delays for President Joe Biden’s judicial nominations.

Despite the scrutiny surrounding her health, Feinstein chose to remain in her committee assignment and the Senate, returning to work on Capitol Hill in May.

A recent poll conducted in California’s Senate primary showed Rep. Barbara Lee in third place, trailing behind Reps. Adam Schiff and Katie Porter. However, the top two candidates from the March 2024 primary, regardless of party affiliation, will advance to the general election in November 2024.

As the discussion continues, the possibility of Rep. Barbara Lee assuming a Senate seat remains a topic of interest and speculation.

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