Ailing Democratic Senator Dianne Feinstein, 90, hospitalized in San Francisco following fall at home

Dianne Feinstein, the 90-year-old Democratic Senator from California, was hospitalized on Tuesday after tripping and falling at her home in San Francisco. However, she was released after tests showed that she was fine. A spokesperson for Feinstein stated that she briefly went to the hospital as a precaution, and all of her scans came back clear. This incident raises concerns about her ability to carry out her duties as a senator, as Feinstein has faced health problems in recent years.

Feinstein had been in Washington D.C. for legislative business in the past couple of months but is currently on the annual August break along with other senators. Earlier this year, she missed nearly three months of work due to shingles and came back to the Senate in May. However, she was in a wheelchair and appeared frail upon her return. Aides have been assisting her around the Capitol, and she has been advised on how to vote on major legislation. Feinstein revealed that doctors have advised her to work a lighter schedule as she continues to experience side-effects from the shingles virus.

The 9,500-square-foot mansion in Presidio, San Francisco, where Feinstein resides with her late husband Richard Blum, has been the subject of media attention. The couple purchased the mansion for $16.5 million in 2016, and it boasts five bedrooms, three fireplaces, an elevator, a wine cellar, and an in-law apartment. Despite her health struggles, Feinstein has refused to step down from her Senate seat and has given power of attorney to her daughter, Katherine.

Feinstein has faced calls to resign, even from fellow Democrats, due to concerns that her health issues and absence could hinder the confirmation of President Joe Biden’s judges. She sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee, which holds confirmation hearings. While some women lawmakers have supported her, arguing that it is sexist to ask Feinstein to resign when many white male senators have served until their deaths, she has faced criticism for her performance. In late July, she stumbled during a vote on a defense bill, needing to be reminded to say “aye” instead of launching into a diatribe.

Feinstein has announced that she will not seek re-election next year, and several Democrats have already entered the primary to replace her. On the Republican side, businessman Eric Early is running. Feinstein is currently the fifth-oldest person to serve in the Senate and one of the wealthiest, with an estimated net worth of $58 million. She was married to investment banker Richard Blum until his death in 2022.

As Feinstein’s health concerns persist, her ability to fulfill her senatorial duties remains in question. With her upcoming retirement and the entrance of several candidates into the race for her seat, the future of California’s Senate representation hangs in the balance.

Original Story at www.dailymail.co.uk – 2023-08-09 13:58:14