California Governor Gavin Newsom has chosen Laphonza Butler, the President of EMILY’s List, to succeed the recently deceased Senator Dianne Feinstein.
The official announcement is slated for today, and there are no restrictions on Butler running for re-election in 2024. This opens the door for her to compete in the Democratic primaries and subsequent special elections. Butler is set to be officially sworn in by Vice President Kamala Harris on Wednesday.
This appointment comes amid a period of significant political transition in California, as the state mourns the loss of Feinstein. Governor Newsom, who was mentored by Feinstein, had to make a quick decision, balancing both his personal loss and the political implications.
Butler, currently registered to vote in Maryland, will change her registration to California. Newsom had initially committed to appointing a Black woman to the seat, a promise he has now fulfilled despite facing pressure and having several potential candidates decline the opportunity.
The rapid pace of the appointment has limited the ability for interest groups and politicians to influence Newsom’s choice. Congressional Black Caucus Chair Steven Horsford had advocated for Rep. Barbara Lee, but Newsom had already ruled her out.
Butler is no stranger to Newsom’s circle; she’s a seasoned organizer and was even considered for the role of his first chief of staff. She has a strong background in labor leadership and public policy, having worked with former Governor Jerry Brown on various initiatives. She’s also the first openly LGBTQ person to represent California in the Senate.
EMILY’s List is a significant fundraising organization focused on electing Democratic women who are pro-choice. The decision comes at a critical time for the Senate, which is closely divided along party lines.
The appointment is a significant move for Newsom, adding to a series of high-profile nominations he has made, including filling both U.S. Senate seats from California and appointing the state’s Attorney General and Secretary of State.
The decision comes as Senate Democrats are in dire need of maintaining their majority, especially with pressing legislative matters at hand. Newsom’s choice is expected to have a lasting impact on California’s political landscape and could potentially influence the balance of power in the Senate.
A carpetbagger–not a resident of California
What kind of name is Laphonza ?
Why don’t you tell us your name
A caretaker Senator? Likely she will be “persuaded” to run next year. Quite the domino effect from Schiff down to Shyne. Maybe that’s what made her ill on Monday night.
We’ve been saying for years that all the talented people were leaving California, and Newsom said it wasn’t so.
This appointment is Newson’s way of admitting he was wrong about that, whether he knows it or not.
Thank you for removing the “white unite” commenter.
Checking boxes. She doesn’t even live in the state.
Imagine if he said he was only going to hire a white male….the uproar would be nonstop. I guess racism the other way around though is ok. Racism is not cured by more racism (reverse racism).
If all citizens are truly considered equal under the law, the checking of the boxes for this individual is painfully obvious. Let’s dispense with labels and pet causes and consider well balanced individuals that are able to see beyond the popular confines of limitation.
Imagine that, Gruesome Newsom picked a black woman to fill this spot as he said he would. You have to love Affirmative Action. But my god can you believe it, by her bio on Emily’s website she’s a Maryland resident (since taken down after this was announced). That would mean Newsom doesn’t believe there is ONE qualified black woman that lives in California to be a US Senator. Guess he’s right, California is a Third World Country!
Not my senator. I don’t accept this racially based appointment. All men and women should have been considered for such an important position.