Sen. Dianne Feinstein resisted calls on Wednesday for her to resign.
The 89-year-old California Democrat has been absent from the Senate since February, when she was diagnosed with shingles.
- Feinstein's absence has limited the ability of Senate Democrats to proceed with judicial nominations.
- Democratic lawmakers have publicly expressed concerns that Feinstein is unable to fulfill her responsibilities.
- Feinstein's
Senate colleagues called for her to resign on Wednesday, when it became
apparent that she would not return after the chamber's two-week recess.
- In a statement,
she said she wants to return as soon as her health improves but has
asked Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to appoint a temporary
replacement to carry out her duties.
- Feinstein, the oldest member of Congress, said she would temporarily step down from the Senate Judiciary Committee.
- Appointing a temporary replacement for Feinstein would require unanimous consent or support from at least 60 of the Senate's 100 members.
- The measure would require support from Republicans who may refuse to provide it as they attempt to stall President Biden’s judicial nominations.
