Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), the first member of Congress to call on Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) to resign, doubled down on his request this week following new details about her health, saying, “it’s sad for anyone to see.”
In an interview with Alex Wagner, the progressive congressman applauded the California senator’s professional accomplishments, but emphasized that he believes her ongoing health concerns are disqualifying at this point.
“First, let me say I admire her career. She has had an extraordinary career. But it’s sad for anyone to see and it’s sad for her own colleagues to see,” Khanna said in the televised appearance on Thursday.
Khanna’s public comments came after a much-discussed story that brought additional scrutiny to the 89-year-old senator. The piece revealed more medical issues associated with her shingles recovery, including an encephalitis diagnosis. Few people knew about that related health problem and it reignited a debate about how the veteran senator should proceed with her career. “I’m hopeful that people who are close to her can talk to her and just say, ‘Look, end your service with dignity. Step aside, let the governor appoint someone,’” Khanna said.
Feinstein’s health has been a major focus on Capitol Hill, with some Democrats urging her to step down so that matters on the Judiciary Committee such as judge vacancies can be addressed while the party is in power, while others have been more sensitive about that fact that age and gender are important to consider when calling for a prominent lawmaker’s resignation.
Progressives have particularly been calling for her resignation, swatting off criticism that some have said is sexist and ageist. Khanna said it’s his “hope” that she makes that decision for “her own dignity.”