Why a quick Feinstein replacement is in Newsom’s best interest

SAN FRANCISCO — Gov. Gavin Newsom has several strong incentives to move quickly on replacing Sen. Dianne Feinstein.

WASHINGTON
Feinstein was indispensable to the 50-50 Senate split, and Democrats need every vote they can get to avert an impending government shutdown, confirm judges, and generally advance President Joe Biden’s agenda.

“We cannot afford to be one down,” Sen. Tim Kaine told POLITICO.

Newsom would escape pressure from Washington by getting the Democrats back to 50 ASAP.

REP. BARBARA LEE
There is a mounting pressure campaign by allies of the California congress member, the only Black woman running to succeed Feinstein, to appoint her to the interim position.

Newsom could short-circuit the intensifying Draft Lee campaign by making an expeditious appointment.

EVERYONE ELSE
Beyond Lee, Newsom’s team is fielding texts and calls from a host of other potential replacements and their supporters. Unconfirmed names in the mix range from Bay Area Rapid Transit board member and House candidate Lateefah Simon to Secretary of State Shirley Weber.

Newsom would put that frenzy to rest by acting fast to name Feinstein’s temporary successor.

AVOIDING THE SPOTLIGHT
While Newsom typically enjoys the spotlight, appearing on cable news to play Biden’s attack dog against Republicans like Florida Gov. and presidential candidate Ron DeSantis, this is one time where the California governor would rather not have all eyes on him.

Newsom is also sensitive to the need for a mourning period honoring Feinstein’s monumental legacy — he has had a longstanding relationship with her.

Given all these considerations, Newsom is likely to act soon. But the drama won’t end there for the governor. There's no choice that would make everyone happy.

This reporting first appeared in California Playbook PM. Sign up to receive it in your inbox.