Representative Barbara Lee is privately discussing a run for the US Senate seat currently held by Democrat Dianne Feinstein, a person familiar with her plans said.
(Bloomberg) — Representative Barbara Lee is privately discussing a run for the US Senate seat currently held by Democrat Dianne Feinstein, a person familiar with her plans said.
The California Democrat told members of the Congressional Black Caucus her intentions during a closed-door meeting Wednesday, but stopped short of making an official announcement or launching a campaign, the person said.
In an interview after that meeting, Lee demurred, saying she’s focused now on raising money to help with storms that have caused massive flooding in California.
“There’s going to be a time, though, to talk about that and that’s publicly for the press, and I will,” she said when asked about a possible bid.
Candidates are already lining up for Feinstein’s seat. The 89-year-old, who is the longest-serving woman in the Senate and the chamber’s oldest member, is widely expected to not seek re-election in 2024.
On Tuesday, Representative Katie Porter launched her campaign to run for Feinstein’s seat in 2024. The prominent progressive also filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission to initiate the Senate bid.
“Everyone is of course welcome to throw their hat in the ring, and I will make an announcement concerning my plans for 2024 at the appropriate time,” according to a statement Feinstein provided to the San Francisco Chronicle this week.
Feinstein declined to serve as president pro tempore of the Senate in the 118th Congress, a post usually held by the longest-serving senator of the majority party. She had less than $10,000 in her campaign account at the end of September.
Lee originally joined Congress in 1998. Other Democrats including Representatives Adam Schiff and Ro Khanna may consider a Senate bid.
–With assistance from Greg Giroux.
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