Sen. Dianne Feinstein faces first calls to resign from members of Congress

After a long absence due to health reasons, Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) is being called to resign by fellow Democrats in Congress.

Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) was the first member to call for Feinstein's resignation late Wednesday afternoon.

He tweeted, "It's now for __URL__to resign." "We must put the country before personal loyalty. She has served a life of public service but it is clear that she cannot fulfill her duties. Our credibility as elected representatives of people is undermined if we don't speak up

Khanna explained in a message for NBC News that there was a crisis in the judiciary, with extremist judges removing women's rights. It's not possible to preach on TV about the dangers of these judges, and then watch as Senator Feinstein votes absently to confirm pro-choice judge judges.

He said, "It's high time that California officials who are deeply concerned about reproductive rights call for her to resign at this point in history."

There are increasing concerns that Senator Feinstein's absence has been a hindrance to Senate Democrats, especially when it comes down to confirming judges. This is due to her crucial vote on the Judiciary Committee.

Rep. Dean Phillips (D-Minn.), quickly joined the fray to express his agreement with Khanna. Phillips tweeted, "Senator Feinstein was a remarkable American whose contribution to our country is immeasurable." "But it's now a dereliction to duty to remain at the Senate, and a dereliction to duty for those who agree not to speak."

Feinstein, 89 years old, has not voted in Senate since February 16. She said that she was diagnosed with shingles in March. Her office did not provide any information on when she will return.

Feinstein was elected first to the Senate in 1992. She has stated that she will not run for reelection but she still has 20 more months in her term. Khanna has endorsed Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) to replace her.

Lee will be competing against prominent California House Democrats Adam Schiff and Katie Porter. If Feinstein is forced to resign early, Lee could be one of the major beneficiaries. Gavin Newsom stated that he will appoint a Black woman for the seat in case Feinstein retires early and leaves a vacancy.