California Governor’s Decision to Opt for an Interim Appointment Draws Mixed Reactions
In a recent interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press,” California Governor Gavin Newsom addressed the looming question of who he would appoint to fill the Senate seat of the ailing Senator Dianne Feinstein. This decision, which could have significant implications for the Democratic Party, has garnered attention and debate within the political landscape of California.
California’s Political Landscape in Flux
As three prominent California Democrats, including Rep. Barbara Lee, Rep. Adam Schiff, and Rep. Katie Porter, vie for the opportunity to replace Senator Feinstein, Governor Newsom made a surprising announcement. Despite prior speculation that Rep. Barbara Lee might be his top choice for the position, Newsom indicated that he would opt for an “interim appointment” if the need arose.
This decision, Newsom explained, stems from his desire to remain impartial during the ongoing primary race. He expressed concerns about tipping the balance of the Democratic primary, which is just a few months away, and believes that appointing a candidate at this stage would be unfair to those who have put considerable effort into their campaigns.
Rep. Lee’s Response and Implications
Rep. Barbara Lee, upon learning of Newsom’s intentions, voiced her objections, calling the idea of appointing a Black woman only on an interim basis “insulting.” Her reaction underscores the larger debate surrounding representation and the role of interim appointees in California’s political landscape.
With the upcoming March 5 all-party primary, where the top two vote-getters from any party will advance to the November general election, the competition between the three Democratic candidates remains fierce. Recent polling data from the Institute of Government Studies at the University of California, Berkeley, shows Rep. Schiff and Rep. Porter in a close race, while Rep. Lee trails behind. However, a significant portion of voters remains undecided.
Senator Feinstein, although facing questions about her health and her ability to fulfill her duties, has resisted calls to resign, intending to complete her term, which ends in January 2025. This situation has created uncertainty about the timing of any potential vacancy.
Governor Newsom’s Dilemma
Governor Newsom’s reluctance to fill another Senate vacancy is apparent, having previously appointed Alex Padilla to replace Vice President Kamala Harris. Newsom has publicly pledged to appoint a Black woman to any future vacancies, which many initially interpreted as a nod to Rep. Barbara Lee. However, the dynamics have shifted since Feinstein announced her retirement, leading to speculation about whether Newsom would honor this pledge and if Lee would still be his choice.
Despite his commitment to appoint a Black woman if necessary, Newsom strongly suggested that Lee might no longer be the favored candidate. This shift has left political observers and Lee’s supporters wondering about the Governor’s ultimate decision.
Public Opinion and Polling Data
Newsom’s inclination toward an interim appointment has drawn attention to public opinion. According to the Berkeley IGS poll, a majority of California voters (51%) prefer Newsom to appoint someone prepared to run for a full term, compared to 25% who favor an interim appointee. Among Democrats, the preference for a candidate ready for a full term is even higher, at 64%.
While polls indicate that many Californians believe Feinstein should step aside, Newsom remains supportive of his longtime friend and mentor, acknowledging her reduced activity and the delegation of her workload to her staff.
The decision regarding Senator Feinstein’s seat continues to evolve, with implications for the Democratic Party’s future in California. Governor Newsom’s commitment to transparency and fairness in the process remains a focal point of this unfolding political drama.
