Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) has reportedly criticized remarks made by California Governor Gavin Newsom that he would nominate a Black woman to succeed Sen. Dianne Feinstein but not someone who is currently competing for the position.
In California, Lee, a Black candidate for the Senate, is running.
Although Feinstein is not seeking reelection in 2024, concerns have been raised over whether she would serve out her full term due to her health issues and absences from the Senate.
“I am troubled by the governor’s remarks. The idea that a Black woman should be appointed only as a caretaker to simply check a box is insulting to countless Black women across this country who have carried the Democratic Party to victory election after election.” Lee said.
“The perspective of Black women in the U.S. Senate is sorely needed – and needed for more than a few months. Governor Newsom knows this, which is why he made the pledge in the first place. If the Governor intends to keep his promise and appoint a Black woman to the Senate, the people of California deserve the best possible person for that job. Not a token appointment.” Lee continued.
In the past, Newsom has said that if he were to make a successor, he would pick a Black woman.
He has made it obvious that he won’t appoint any of the candidates vying for Feinstein’s position. That would stop Lee from getting the job.
Having an appointment could be quite advantageous for candidates seeking the seat.
After serving in the Senate for 30 years, Fensiten declared in February that she will not run for re-election.
Reps. Adam Schiff, Katie Porter, and Lee are among the candidates vying for Feinstein’s position.
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