Feinstein's Comments About Absence Are Horrifying
Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) was recently questioned by a reporter regarding her extended absence from Washington D.C. due to a bout with the shingles virus. But, according to a report by the Los Angeles Times, the 89-year-old Senator appeared to have no recollection of her time away, scolding the reporter and claiming that she had been “here, voting.”
Feinstein’s recent absence has caused questions to be raised about her fitness to continue to serve in the Senate, especially as the Senate Judiciary Committee is without a tie-breaking vote to advance President Joe Biden’s judicial nominees.
Since her return, Feinstein has been using a wheelchair and has kept a more limited schedule than she did prior to her absence. But when asked about her return and whether her colleagues had offered much in the way of well-wishes, the interview took a turn.
“What have I heard about what?” Feinstein asked.
“About your return,” the reporter prompted.
“I haven’t been gone. You should … I haven’t been gone. I’ve been working,” Feinstein insisted.
When the reporter attempted to clarify whether Feinstein had been working from home, the Senator became agitated.
“No, I’ve been here. I’ve been voting. Please, either know or don’t know,” Feinstein said, ending the interview.
While Feinstein has been back in Washington and voting in the Senate, she has yet to make any public statements regarding her extended absence or her health. Her office has not responded to requests for comment either, leaving many to speculate about the Senator’s status and future plans.
Feinstein has served in the Senate since 1992 and has been a powerful voice for Democrats on a wide range of issues. She announced earlier this year that she would not seek reelection in 2024, but her recent absence has raised questions about her ability to serve out the remainder of her term.
For now, Feinstein appears to be back in the Senate and voting on important issues. But, many are still wondering if her health is up to the task of serving in Congress and if her time away will have any lasting effects.