Feinstein says she's stepping down as top Democrat on Senate Judiciary Committee

WASHINGTON - Sen. Dianne Feinstein said Monday she will step down as top Democrat on the Judiciary Committee in the new session of Congress beginning early 2021, marking a victory for progressives who pressured her to step aside.

"After serving as the lead Democrat on the Judiciary Committee for four years, I will not seek the chairmanship or ranking member position in the next Congress," the California Democrat said in a statement.

Feinstein, 87, said he intends to remain on the committee. She won re-election to a six-year term in 2018 and her term doesn't expire until the end of 2024.

The senator came under fierce criticism from progressives after she lavished praise on Senate Judiciary Chairman Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., for his handling of the Amy Coney Barrett Supreme Court hearing, and gave him a hug after the proceedings concluded on Oct. 15.

"I just want to thank you. This has been one of the best set of hearings that I've participated in," Feinstein told Graham in the committee room. "Thank you so much for your leadership."

Progressive groups including Demand Justice, NARAL and MoveOn.org called on Feinstein to step aside, accusing her of undercutting the party's message against Republicans holding a the Supreme Court hearing ... (Read more)

Latest News