video by @kron4tv
A recent poll suggests that a significant number of Californians question Senator Dianne Feinstein's ability to continue serving in office. The senator returned to Washington earlier this month after a two-month hiatus to recover from shingles. Many have voiced their disapproval of her decision to try to complete her term.
Feinstein's role in Washington entails long hours filled with demanding schedules, meetings, responsibilities, and critical votes. Since her return, numerous Californians are concerned that her health might be too fragile to manage the workload. The senator has been appearing in a wheelchair, with the impact of shingles clearly visible on her face.
A UC Berkeley poll found that 67% of the 7,500 Californians surveyed think Feinstein is no longer fit to serve. Eric Sechler, Co-Director of the Institute of Governmental Studies at the university, noted that the majority of California voters believe it would be appropriate for Senator Feinstein to step down due to her health. When asked if she should resign, 42% said she should continue to serve, while 31% remained undecided.
Feinstein's office confirmed last week that she is coping with the side effects of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome on her face and encephalitis, brain inflammation. Political analyst Michael Yaki delved further into the UC Berkeley poll, finding that 52% of Democrats surveyed want Feinstein to step down. However, he observed that 60, 70, or 80% support for her resignation would put more pressure on the senator, a staunch defender of democratic values.
Yaki pointed out that Feinstein's position on the Judiciary Committee is a significant reason for her to stay in office, as she has the authority to vote on President Biden's nominations for the U.S. Supreme Court. Nevertheless, there is no guarantee that Republicans will consent to anyone filling her seat. Feinstein has announced she will not seek re-election but intends to complete her term, which concludes next year. Ultimately, the choice is hers to make, and as Yaki notes, she is a fighter who will determine when to step back from the battle. Senator Feinstein's office has not commented on the poll results.
This post includes content written by AI tools. Please refer to the video above for verification and additional information. Learn more.