With all due respect to our esteemed Senator Feinstein - her words of suggesting patience with Donald Trump and his administration were not wise. Political leaders from various countries, including the USA, not only were patient when Hitler began his reign but initially supportive. Our government has placed the world in peril by putting Donald Trump in the White House. The republican party as well as Hillary Clinton are deeply out of touch with We the People.
God Bless Senator Feinstein for all she has done for our state and country.
Gavin Newsom, he of "whether you like it or not," something of a low point in a politician addressing his constituents. May the phrase continue to haunt him.
We do not call corner stores Bodegas in California, just as we do not stand on line while in a queue at the bank or post office.
And Feinstein needs to retire. It's time.
What ever happened to mentoring. Feinstein can still play a role in politics if she steps down. Senator is a job not a position in the aristocracy where your heir takes your place after you die.
Dianne Feinstein proved herself to be a war profiteer when she voted for the Iraq war and for defense contracts to her husband, Richard Blum. She proved herself corrupt with her legislation to pump $25 billion into the FDIC which had just awarded her husband's company a contract to sell the foreclosed properties the FDIC received from failed banks. He has money straws in multiple government funding streams, it seems.
4
Her time is up. Finally, a representative of the people. Articulate and intelligent.
Sweep out incumbents. Chance to get this right.
Being a Hillary supporter, I very much admired and would have happily supported Bernie. Although he is too liberal for me, his integrity for me in unquestioned and I believe he would have won if he had taken the Democratic nomination. Having said that Kevin de Leon inspires absolutely nothing in me and concerns me a great deal. I'm quite happy that he will not be our next Senator and I'm also quite happy that the most factual senator (Feinstein) of all 100 will be again. The real choice for Californian's is not the senatorial race but the governors race because the biggest threat to California other than Trump and his cadres of super-liars is the pension system in this state.
2
DIanne Feinstein still has my vote and she will win. De Leon is fooling no one....he is only about identity politics.
1
Senator Feinstein has been asked to exit gracefully for some time and chose to ignore such requests so there was no other option.
4
Add me to the many Californians who feel that it's time for the Old Guard Democrats, not least Sen. Feinstein, to move on. Some of what they've done has been great; some, not so much; some, especially in the case of Sen. Feinstein, downright lousy. I'm not sure I'd agree with every one of de Leon's policy positions over her stances. But the party needs new energy, new ideas and new faces. And as one aspect of this dynamic, new faces will provide Trump and the Republicans with less ammunition as they seek something to campaign against (since they don't have much that's positive to offer) in 2018 and 2020.
6
“California’s greatness comes from acts of human audacity, not congressional seniority"
I don't think this is about Feinstein's age, but how entrenched Senators and Representatives get as they serve term after term. Sometimes, some new leadership is needed to bring in new perspective.
2
More than anything, DEMS need leaders about whom they can get excited about and rally around, especially as we approach the mid-terms and 2020 election. Sure, she's been reliable, centrist, steadfast on the important stuff, but this is politics, Sen. Feinstein just doesn't quicken the pulse any more. Thanks for all you've done for us Senator but it's time pass the reigns on.
2
Dianne Feinstein has worked hard for us for decades AND NEVER LET US DOWN. What is wrong with Dems? Don't let the Bernie supporters try to control the Party like they did in the Presidential election. Because Bernie's people at his direction believed the lies from the GOP and the Russians about Hillary, many voted for Trump and that stinks.
3
Barb,
Curious about these "lies" told about HRC. Care to share a few?
As for "never let(ing) us down". Do you remember her vote FOR the Iraq war?!
Maybe her continued support of the War on Drugs, in particular cannabis reform.
Maybe it was her monumental ethical conflicts of interest while sitting on the Military Construction Appropriations Subcommittee. Senator Feinstein voted for appropriations worth billions of dollars to her husband’s firms in the MIC. Surprise, she is the ninth richest member of congress. Shocked I know!
Yes, she did a yeoman's job as a Dem. Time to step aside.
As for the Berniecrats voting for Trump, yes, some did. Many more voted Green. That said, care to guess how many Dino's flipped and voted Trump?!
Try millions.
Quit hippie punching.
Dems need all the voters they can get.
Casting blame without acknowledging ones own party issues is bogus.
That stinks.
5
For over a decade, Senator Feinstein has supported foolhardy wars and interventions that Californians don't support.
It's no surprise that our disgust with that course is catching up to her and overshadowing the good things she has done.
4
Ms. Feinstein and Ms. Pelosi need to both step aside and allow for new blood. They were pioneers but now it is time to go. Otherwise, we'll be left with a leadership vacuum or ineffective leadership which will be worse when they have to go.
3
The leadership for the Democrats is too corporate, too centrist, and - too old.
Nothing against age (I'm old, too) but hopefully new brooms will sweep clean.
The DNC has yet to reckon with why it has been losing so badly, including the 2016 presidential election, which it hoped would be a coronation of sorts.
5
Sen. Feinstein--married to billionaire Dick Blum--said she thinks our billionaire president could still be a good president (no walking that back). Perhaps because she has for so long lived in a bubble, she consistently supports big business over the interests of the average Californian. While she has stood for several issues I support, she has also worked hard for big ag and moneyed interests that have exacerbated serious environmental degradation in the state. She has used her offices to do special favors for her wealthy friends and pet projects, no matter that they were not in the interests of the majority of Californians.
Just ask anyone who has worked for her (and is willing to speak off the record) if she is a nice person--she is not. She, like Pelosi and other members of the Democratic old guard lost the most consequential election in American history. Kudos to Sen. Boxer for stepping aside and making way for Kamala Harris. It's too bad Feinstein didn't have the grace to groom a female successor. The midterms need to shake both parties to their core. I will be voting for Kevin de Leon.
6
Anytime someone asserts "Ageism and sexism" as the reasons DiFi and NanPel are being asked to step down and how wrong, wrong, wrong that is, I laugh. I do not deny Ms. Pelosi and Ms. Feinstein my vote due to their gender, or their age; I deny them both my vote as they are centrist, pro-corporate, money-machine politicians of the sort who make the Democratic party into bilingual Republicans with more crying and less success. I've heard Pelosi speak on behalf of the dreamers for seven hours, but I've never heard her make a peep about how much money we waste on our military; Feinstein rakes in fundraising while being useless and silent on the real issues California Voters want to see as areas of change, like electoral reform and better social services and much, much more.
I don't want young Democratic Candidates or Male Democratic Candidates; I just want Democratic Candidates who ACT LIKE DEMOCRATS, and Pelosi and Feinstein are just too, too moderate, money-fed and mute to matter in today's more difficult political time.
4
Just a few weeks ago, a New Yorker asked me where the nearest bodega could be found. As a lifelong Californian who's lived in Southern California and the Bay Area, I had no idea what she was talking about.
1
I don't understand why politicians can't ever seem to step aside gracefully. The profession appears to require some unspoken determination to go out of office in a coffin. For some politicians, this has actually proven to be the case.
The phenomenon isn't limited to Democrats either. Republican leadership had to employ the shepherd's hook to get Orrin Hatch out and he still left the stage grudgingly. The only thing moving his feet was the promise of an uncontested primary under Mitt Romney.
This is silly. We should have potential representatives debating the future of the Parties, not clinging to some forgotten past. You wonder why millennial voters refuse to engage with either Party. Feinstein is a perfect example. Things are bad when Bernie Sanders is the freshest voice in the mix.
Democrats need to stop being so terribly self-absorbed. We need them to win some broader electoral victories. You can bicker about who gets seniority again after you win. Until then, get over yourselves.
In fact, I support an end to the two-party system. The existing structure has long outlived its usefulness to anyone but die hard supporters. Time to go.
4
Politicians have power when they hold office, and power is addicting. So they cling onto it until they die, although they will justify it with claims of "dedication" or "the people need me."
Contrary to idealized portrayals like Mr. Smith Goes To Washington, people who have no interest in power rarely have the drive and political acumen to actually succeed in politics. Instead of waiting for the good and pure to come along as save us, the answer is to put in institutional restrictions on any individual office-holder having too much power. Sometimes, that may mean term limits.
California, by itself, one of the largest economies in the world, might want to get some younger more energetic leadership. The chances of Feinstein finishing out her term with full mental capacity and/or with the necessary vigor is slim considering her age. The problem is that her team relies on her continuing so that they can continue themselves; it is just more of the Emperor's new clothes, this time played out by an old aging empress. There are many other ways to contribute to society; Feinstein can teach part time. Or act as a consultant. Or fund raise for the party.
Power corrupts. Older people fear that no one will pay attention to them (who would hang out with her, once she gave up her Senate seat?) She now has 71 aides who attend to her every need. I think that says it all...
7
Putin and the NRA are lovin' this development.
#iamnotwither.
As Shakespeare would say “all things good must come to an end.”
She has served our state and the nation admirably but time she moved on.
Do what former CA senator Barbara Boxer did.i.e shape progressive causes from the outside.
3
Yes, anyone sensible like Feinstein needs to step out of the way for the leftist crazies.
2
The future of this country will be lived by those under 40. It is time that they become involved in the governing and decision making. The older crowd should realize this and gracefully step aside while offering to be available for advise should the need arise.
3
This is the same shortsighted stupidity that lost the Democratic party the supreme talents of Al Franken. Ms. Feinstein is sharp and valuable. This is sexist ageism.
While the Democrats certainly need to push out the corporatism and fire up their messaging, they need to remember that they didn't lose, the Republicans cheated and the Russians won.
Don't self destruct. Share what you stand for and defeat the cheating Russian Republicans! Mr. Mueller's investigation will help get this rolling very soon.
Hang in there Ms. Feinstein.
3
lechrist,
You do realize that DiFi was one of those who pushed our Al, right...?
https://twitter.com/SenFeinstein/status/938473430298562560
https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/California-Sens-Harris-Feinstein...
By the by, playing the sexist, ageism card weakens your point.
Most of us are tired of her and her positions. Sex and age have nothing to do with it other than she has been a congresswoman long enough.
2
At one point three of the most powerful women in the US--Pelosi, Feinstein, and Boxer-- were from the Bay Area. Boxer had the good sense to retire; now it's time for Feinstein, and, if Pelosi was not so self-obsessed--she would do the same. California deserves a broader geographic representation, not a minor issue in a state that easily rivals countries in its economic clout.
2
Its not just her age that is against her. It is the fact she is not Hispanic. The demographics in California have changed tremendously during the past few decades. It is a liberal state deeply entrenched in identity politics. The days of white politicians at the top are over in California. It wouldn't be surprising to see a referendum presented in a decade or two for the state to succeed and join Mexico. After all, it has become a place where the endless thirst for cheap labor and open borders has driven out the middle class in masses, and resulted in it being a place for the very rich and the very poor. Much like a third world country. At this point, Feinstein is probably seen as too conservative in the eyes of California voters, which is mind blowing in itself.
I see our California expert in Brooklyn has issued the authoritative opinion on the matter...
I was wondering how we California Democrats could possibly screw up in removing all the state's Republicans from Congress next election and now I know. Simple, we just divide the vote between the left, the far-left and the lunatic-left.
2
"But what if, instead of a phone, the people [in CA] tried to reinvent cities?"
"Not enough construction workers."
no need for reinvention when basic construction and sanitation work needs to be done first. parks and recreation too. fixing urban blight too. environmental clean up too. keep california great.
...
any discussion and photos about new trains (costs and benefits), instead of old people? both CA and NY have antiquated and limited train systems, as does the rest of the country.
...
fight misogyny in the courts, although lawyers can be expensive.
...
no matter where you buy it alcohol is a drug with age restrictions and taxes. note also that alcohol stores frequently sell lottery tickets, an implicit form of voluntary taxation, and tobacco products, which also have age restrictions and taxes. but a difference between CA and NY is that CA now has the ability to tax a newly legal drug called cannabis. if you are interested in money, tax revenue by any other name would smell just as sweet, even if the drugs themselves stink.
When one doesn't know when to exit the stage; ya never know, they could have an Orrin Hatch moment awaiting them. When he was named Utahn of the Year by the Salt Lake Tribune.
1
Senator Feinstein has served the state and country laudably. As a longtime resident of California, I have voted for her consistently. However, it's time to start grooming a successor. She does not own the office. Many of my friends don't necessarily feel that she is too conservative. Just that we want to see the next generation come up. So you know I'm not a complete ageist: I'm a pushing seventy.
6
Regarding those who would call for Sen. Feinstein's retirement. John McCain is 81. Had it not been for the illness he recently developed, he most certainly would have run again. Does anyone honestly believe there would be the same outcry against him?
1
Come on, ladies. It's time to saddle up and read into the sunset. There is a whole new crop of youngsters waiting to take their rightful place in the California congressional delegation. Furthermore, the new ones are in a fighting mood and no longer interested in being pin cushions for the Republican right and its monied interests.
3
Much of America views the GOP and Dems the same way: same old, predictable, entrenched politicians who can't get anything done, who constantly put party before country. Grateful for Senator Feinstein's service, she's done good for California and America, hope we see more women in government, but it's time for new faces, new leadership. She's now part of the problem rather than the solution.
3
There are reasons we have elections.
Each election cycle should be an affirmation and or a rejection of the incumbent.
Each election cycle should be a renewal of government.
Each election cycle should be a selection of the known old and the unknown new.
Di Fi - contradictions in old guard Democrats. They are both the elite, compromised for too many years bybig time monied interests. Where are the Union Gals and Guys who are the real dems going to run? you know, the woman or man who started as a working class hero. Ms Feinstein is on the good side of many issues but then again was blind to war and war making machinery. This funneling of our treasure to all these expensive implements and useless wars is why she should be voted out.
3
Senator Feinstein has blazed trails as a woman and a progressive leader.
But at age 85, it's time for her to pass the baton.
9
"She is viewed as too moderate and Old Guard." She is too old. There, I fixed it for you.
Joking aside, can anyone explain how an 85-year-old, any 85-year-old, deserves a lifetime job, pope and queen excepted? I think Feinstein is smart and has had an honorable career, but come on. People pushing 90 aren't in the prime of anything.
4
In the beginning it was good, very good. Like fish, cheese, milk and visiting guest, there is always an expiration date. She knows this as well.
Happy trails Dianne.
1
Democratic activists are often criticized by mainstream media for being too left wing and out of touch. Interestingly, this criticism only seems to apply to the Democrats, while the Republicans' embrace of the extreme right has succeeded in delivering control congress, the presidency, the supreme court, most state houses and governorships. This might mean that the U.S. is inherently very right wing. Alternatively, it might mean that voters want candidates who take strong positions and don't sound like they are bank CEO's. I'm for the Democrats playing hard ball just like the Republicans. Obama wasted the first two years in office, when he had veto-proof majorities, trying to create the grand compromise with Republican -- Trump is the result.
2
Diane Feinstein is 84 years old. After 30 years in office, she wants another six-year term as a Senator. There is enough wrong with both sentences to justify her rejection by the Democratic Party.
3
A word for Sen. Feinstein. She votes; she is adamant on gun control; she has fact-based knowledgeable of national security issues. The age issue is in protracted negotiations with the other side. But the other side doesn't negotiate, or haven't you noticed, preferring name calling and "alt-facts" as their sop.
1
Please - please - Mdm Feinstein (and Pelosi), for the sake of everyone, it's time, more than time, to step aside. Yes, you have served the party and country well. But, especially Ms. Pelosi, you have also served yourself well. It's time for new energy and new ideas, please go . . .
4
Remember back to the Democratic Party California Presidential primary? Ms. Clinton’s California campaign machine, along with Governor Brown, did everything they could to marginalize candidate Senator Bernie Sanders. Adios Ms. Feinstein.
2
And there you go. When a lifelong liberal like Feinstein is fighting for her political life against someone even farther left than she is, you have to know that Californians have lost their collective minds. Sooner than later the title "People's Republic" will aptly apply to California as well as communist Red China.
7
Never ceases to amaze me the ignorance of fellow Americans.
Why are you so threatened by our progressive policies?
4
Ms. Feinstein,
Thx you for your service.
Pls ensure Ms. pelosi is joining you on same flight back to CA. And yes, pls. don't come back.
6
"because at least you guys do use Spanish to refer to a _convenient store_ while we still don’t.”
-------
Since it was over the phone, my guess is that the reporter mis-heard Mr. Arellano. He probably said "convenience store."
1
Terrible news. The Dem left is intolerant of any pol not supporting their agenda. So they humiliate Feinstein and support the likes of Mayor Bill de Blasio whose administration circles the drain of incompetence and corruption.
5
Feinstein AND Pelosi would be doing the Democratic Party of America a favor by stepping aside and working in the background. Age is a significant factor: Sen. Feinstein's likelihood of surviving (i.e. living out, not to mention being rigorous and productive) the next six years are slim at best. Better to nurture some 50- or 60-y.o. (or even younger?) whippersnapper with a head full of ideas and a boiler bursting with steam. It's difficult to carry on your legacy from your grave or urn.
6
I have always been a Diane Feinstein fan but I agree with you about age/term/productivity.
2
She is 84. Time to step aside. But alas, power is intoxicating and people love to be intoxicated.
11
Your coverage about Feinstein should also include the chants of "Times Up", which were directed at her. Using a slogan from the #metoo movement to shame a female politician is abhorrent and unacceptable, no matter who you are endorsing or not endorsing.
2
Senator Feinstein should retire now. At 84, her life expectancy is 91 years of age. She stands a good chance of losing some of her mental capabilities while in office and may even die during the six years in office. The data suggests her candidacy is ill advised.
5
'' That said, her showing — 37 percent — was something of a shock... '' ~ No, it wasn't a shock at all , nor was Clinton losing a shock. It isn't a shock that republicans are losing their seats (in wildly red districts across the county)
The only shock is the media and those in power that think that representatives of government can only represent corporate or the 1%'s interests over anyone else and get away with it anymore.
They are going to be voted out if their positions do not reflect the electorate.
Simple.
6
Adam and Matt
As a California (Northern) resident for way too many more years than I would like to admit, please use "Bodegas" as much as you want, to refer to "Convenience" stores or any other second-rate term. Bodegas has so much more cachet.
Here's another one, I'll also back you all if you refer to "San Francisco" or "The City" as the oldtimers call it, to "Frisco." There's way too much navel-gazing up here in the SFBay Area and possibly LA.
And quit joining the chorus and call SF a "Progressive" city. Maybe it was back when I don't know when but since 1980 every mayor and the City council has been run by Center-right politicians except for Art Agnos who was more Progressive and they gave have him the bum's rush after one term. The nexus between City Hall and the business establishment is very strong, with PG&E the leader.
DiFi should have gently been "retired" right after she voted for the egregious Iraq War, knowing full well it was concocted by "W"s neo-con cabal. I suppose she just wanted to show she was and is tough. So what if we wasted so many American and Iraqi lives, and spent several trillions of dollars, politicians never take direct responsibility.
10
'' That said, her showing — 37 percent — was something of a shock... '' ~ No, it wasn't a shock at all , nor was Clinton losing a shock. It isn't a shock that republicans are losing their seats (in wildly red districts across the county)
The only shock is the media and those in power that think that representatives of government can only represent corporate or the 1%'s interests over anyone else and get away with it anymore.
They are going to be voted out if their positions do not reflect the electorate.
Simple.
3
In Spain, a bodega is a wine cellar ... not a warehouse!
2
"Time to move on, time to get going..."
Thanks for your service, Senator Feinstein - you've done many good works.
-- a long-time California progressive
8
Some life long senators should retire and make way for a new generation of senators. Senators have to be independent and should not vote just along party lines. But recently they have been voting along party lines making them more redundant than ever.
2
It is time for Dianne Feinstein to retire. We are in desperate need of young, innovative candidates in the Democratic Party-not Bernie Sanders-not Elizabeth Warren. Look to Corey Booker and Joe Kennedy III, Right now the leadership of the party looks like a group of aged has beens-spouting the same boring message. I am a die-hearted Democrat who has been voting for over forty years and I have just had it with the leadership of this party.
3
If the Democrats want to succeed, in midterms and 2020, they MUST change the faces of the party. While the Feinsteins, Pelosis, Schumers and the like have done hard work, the message in 2016 was clear - no status quo. They completely missed that message then, they simply cannot miss it again.
The experience of long tenured statesmen has value, but more of the same isn't going to cut it. Younger, newer faces need to be front and center NOW. It's the only way to motivate all segments to get out to vote, to win back traditionally democratic voters lost last time around, capture the youth vote, AND to attract moderate Republicans appalled at the guy in White House and disenchanted with the GOP.
10
It seems fairly clear the "top two" in this Senate race will be Sen. Feinstein and Speaker DeLeon. It may very well hinge on who Republican voters hold their nose and vote for: the powerful Senator who shares at least some of their priorities, or the liberal upstart who removes the seniority of a powerful Democrat. In either case, the seniority system in the Senate is the problem here. Influence and power should be handed out based on merit, intelligence, and results -- not how long you've doddered on in the institution.
3
No way "packies" are synonymous with "convenience stores." Or "bodegas." The latter two could be synonyms, though I always think of bodegas as a little more crowded, more Spanish products, more meals for sale, etc.
I think it may be a mistake to suggest the Democratic Party in California is moving further left. The leadership of the party, representing activists, is certainly further left than the majority of registered Democrats. But that has been so for years. It is particularly noticeable this year as the disappointed Bernie supporters have become more active and vocal. But the majority of registered Democrats, and the Independents the party needs, are more middle of the road, in my opinion. It remains a problem for all Democratic candidates when they feel they have to pick a segment of the party for support, and alienate the others.
2
it's natural to overestimate what is possible in politics. de leon provides a good example. perhaps we can nominate george mcgovern.
I'm a native Southern Californian from LA. If anyone said he was going to the "bodega" to get a snack, I'd have no idea where he was going. We generally called them "7-11's" and sometimes, "drug store's."
Bodega sounds like a cross of the words bay, bog, and lagoon to me. I'd just assume that the person was going to the ocean near San Diego, or something.
Re: Feinstein, remember seniority has perks, namely, sitting on committees that count for something. It will take newbies awhile to build seniority.
1
Anyone familiar with NYC knows what "bodega" refers to. I agree with a fellow
Californian's comment that using "bodega" for "liquor/convenience" store
just has a bit more pizzazz.
1
Before my relocation to California I went to delis, milk stores, package stores, 7-11s and “the Koreans.” Here in California we have mini marts, the ubiquitous 7-11s as well as tiendas and their diminutives. We have convenience stores, but nobody calls them that. I wonder how “vaquita” — an endangered porpoise—became Miami slang for a little store.
2
From a story in the Sacramento Bee:
"As her primetime speech at the California Democratic Party convention ran long Saturday, an orchestral recording drowned out Sen. Dianne Feinstein. "I guess my time is up," she said, as she walked off stage midway through her remarks.
"Yeah! Your time is up," supporters of her primary challengers, state Senate leader Kevin de León and attorney Pat Harris, shouted, leaping at a chance to tell California's senior senator to retire."
The is is US Senator they were talking about. A woman, to boot. Who has served as a Democratic Senator since 1992.
I'm appalled by the California Democrats' treatment of her. If they want to pick someone else, fine. But show Sen Feinstein the respect she's entitled to.
45
Respect is earned. Feinstein has not earned our respect, she has serially driven the party and the state further right from its New Deal roots.
Her hawkish foreign policy has been devastating to women civilians from Iraq to Central America.
We are so very tired of her hogging power. Begone with her.
3
You know what, with statements like yours I would say we don't deserve Dianne Feinstein. We deserve to lose the election AGAIN thanks to unsupportive Dems like you.
1
The Left Wing Fringe in California is still smarting from the rejection of Bernie.
Having said that
Sen Feinstein should have retired 20 years ago
It's time to get someone new in there
If the GOP wasn't saddled with Trump a moderate GOP candidate could take that seat in the Nov election.
10
I have nothing against the elderly (I'm almost in that category...) - but anyone who says someone in their mid to upper 80s is as viable as they were 30 years ago is lying. Ms. Feinstein did an admirable job. She should retire and let some fresh ideas come into the mix. Stagnant leadership isn't helping the Democratic Party.
46
I have been a long time supporter of Senator Feinstein but I think it's time for a generational change. I'd like to see more Senators step aside and let the younger generation have a chance. It's time for a change.
29
I have to stop reading these comments putting Dianne Feinstein down. I guess doing a fantastic job means nothing to the Democratic Party. With this kind of thinking, we will surely lose again.
1
“Power is the ultimate aphrodisiac,” according to Kissinger. And now Feinstein 85, is doing what Putin and Xi Jinping are doing for their respective country, Russia and China, holding on to power.
Sure she deserves to be a senator but how about grooming younger people to take her place. She's probably going to get elected again because of the simple fact that her opponents will have meager election funds compared to her millions.
15
Feintstein is 84 and has held that seat for 25 years. That ought to be enough power for anyone. Time to retire and let a new person have a crack at that seat.
But I want to thank Senator Feinstein for introducing the Federal Assault Weapons Ban, which became law in 1994 (and tragically expired in 2004). Well done, Senator. You saved an untold number of lives with that one.
42
Was the Federal Assault Weapons Ban actually effective at preventing deaths? I don't think so. The Wikipedia article on the bill has references to multiple studies that all point to the fact that the bill was completely ineffective at reducing gun deaths. It makes sense because the definition of "assault weapon" under that bill was almost entirely related to cosmetic features of guns and not instead their killing power. It was pointless.
And Senator Feinstein is an _incredible_ hypocrite when it comes to gun legislation, having for a while her own conceal carry permit but passing legislation to prevent other people from obtaining the same.
In fact, this Senator has done nothing in her tenure but strip us of our rights. She's been a supporter of the Patriot Act since its inception.
Good riddance. Glad to see her gone.
1
I will give you this, dear Californians, to expand on your knowledge of the word “BODEGA.” The word means many things to many people, depending on the context in which it is used and how it is used in the country where you come from. “Bodega” can be a place where wine is stored; or, the land/place of the establishment where wine is harvested; or, the convenience store around the corner; and, it can also refer to the food pantry or a place where you store unused dishes. Not all “bodegas” sell liquor, and not all are “delis.”
1
I don't have anything against Dianne Feinstein, per se. But the reality is that the Senate, in particular, has become a gerontocracy. Old people hanging on to their seats, until the end of their lives. Feinstein, Chuck Grassley and Thad Cochran, are prime examples. Dianne, take the hint and move on. Let the next generation have a chance.
25
You can add Nancy Pelosi to the list, too.
3
I respect Sen.Feinstein warts and all. God know we all sport some. She has had 84 years to "get it done" that is plenty. I'm running out of time myself and would like to see some new folks try to move a progressive agenda forward before that time I have left runs out. Rep.Pelosi and Sen.Schumer should follow her. That "high heel" grandstanding from Rep.Pelosi what a waste of the people's time. Google congressional insider trading and 60 Minutes for a eye opener.
18
So the concealed weapon for me, but no guns for you, and the "I never met a war I did not like, hope you poor people like fighting it for $30,000 a year, when our mercenary contractors are getting $100,000 plus from XE & the DeVos Clan," who has done only two things I support, been pro-choice and forced the redacted release of the CIA torture report.
She is only liberal or progressive for political reasons, being married to one of the biggest real estate developers in the world. No soup kitchens for her.
in reality a one issue "progressive", pro-choice.
Her LBGT support will go with the wind if expediency demands it.
May the Goddess save us all.
us army 1969-1971/california jd
3
Sooner or later the old guard, white establishment Democrats will realize the millions of illegals they let into this country will be the same people voting them out .. until then- keep fighting for your DC power seat Diane!
4
Yes, the country is changing. Perhaps the Republicans should have been more concerned with the illegals twenty years ago instead of waging a war against gay citizens and women who wanted to make their own pregnancy decisions. My home sits on land that was once part of a Mexican land grant (Rancho) dating back almost 200 years. Now the Mexicans are taking the state back one illegal at a time. California has been a majority minority state for years and the country is gradually going the same way. Get used to it.
1
They had a big article in the L.A. paper about her ....most of the comments were Extremely negative about her and the Democratic Party being taking over by people that are anti-white /illegal alien loving /and turning the city over to the homeless, but 99 percent of the Readers are thrilled that the paper has been bought by an Asian doctor whose parents fled Communist China to South Africa and then came to L.A. The L.A. Times is now running a series on Homelessness and how it is a National Disgrace/Epidemic/Crisis that is what a being very well recieved by readers who have had enough of Trump bashing articles.
6
I have nothing but respect for Feinstein, Pelosi and Schumer as people. They have been devoted public servants for many years and the role they need to take now is as behind-the-scenes advisors. Democrats have lost government at all levels in many states and they could not beat the most atrocious major party candidate in history. They have allowed the R's to plaster them with mud and push them around for too long. When I look at the young activists emerging out of the recent Florida shooting I see them punching and shouting back. It's time for new leaders and a new approach.
99
Ah, three benevolent war mongers, made wealthy by real estate development and the Military/Industrial Complex.
All I can say is they could be worse, but I do not want them and their self serving ways with me in a firefight.
us army 1969-1971/california jd
7
You don't get rid of good politicians. And no they didn't allow "the R's to plaster them with mud". What would you like them to do? Act like Trump?
It is pretty comfy for them, isn't it? Read recently where Pelosi is on the verge of 200 million in personal wealth.
3
I guess "convenience store" is too unwieldy. Many people take advantage of one company's popularity and call them all “7-11's.” According to some online translation dictionaries, the term favored by Mexican people is abarrotería. However many of us favor the easier to pronounce "bodega" and New Yorkers have no exclusive right to the term.
2
Senator Feinstein thank for you years of dedication and service but at 84 it is past time to retire. We need some younger people with fire in their bellies to take on the Republicans.
86
Funny, you don't see the R's asking McConnell to step down due to age. Age is just a number. Dianne Feinstein and Nancy Pelosi have fought for us for decades successfully. These are terrible times, we have a traitor as President and now is the time to STICK TOGETHER.
The problem in polotics is politicians do not know when it its time to step aside and clear the way for new people. No one is indispensable
regardless of past contributions. This happens in Canad as well.
10
She's done her part, but now she's too set in her ways, too conservative, and been in the Senate way too long. She must go. Just retire, quietly. Thanks for your service.
35
Feinstein and Pelosi need to step aside, the sooner the better. They are both emblematic of a Democratic Party that has veered so far from its New Deal roots, that a ridiculous, Republican billionaire has wooed a large chunk of the electorate away from them.
With Feinstein, there is also the issue of corruption regarding that post office deal Feinstein engineered that further enriched her billionaire developer husband.
The Democratic Party needs to create some daylight between them and the Republicans on the issue of corruption.
67
They are both moving toward the billionaire class, along with the Clintons. No wonder they do not support the working and middle class and FDR's new deal. Bernie is the only one who does and they claim he some kind of socialist!
us army 1969-1971/california jd
1
Don't forget Schumer; check out his list of top donors, he's a Wall St purchase.
2
Feinstein is out of step on a whole range of issues - one the most effective roles she has played in Congress, as a leader in the Intel Committee, is in expanding the gov.'s surveillance powers over Americans. This is the kind of thing liberals don't get too excited about when there's an Obama in office, but belatedly realize is scary when there's a Trump.
31
The basic problem is that she's not Hispanic.
6
Feinstein proscribes to the Reefer Madness wing on Cannabis Legalization.
In recent years she’s been a key ally of Iowa’s Republican Sen. Charles Grassley, the two elder senators working together to block Congressional measures aimed at drug reform in the age of medical and adult-use legalization.
It is said that Dianne never met a uniform she didn’t like. Be it Police, Military or the like. Always overboard and gung ho.
Campaigned against weakening a mandatory 25-years-to-life “Three Strikes” sentencing law and fought a successful initiative, Proposition 47, that reduced many non-violent felonies to misdemeanors.
Feinstein said of Trump: “I just hope he has the ability to learn and change. And if he does, he can be a good president.” Oops!!!
The question is whether she'll be replaced by another status quo, center-right, incrementalist or will California finally elect a real progressive.
She was good for her time, the '80's. 40yrs on....meh.
Bye bye Diane.
25
Since when has "too moderate" become an unfavorable condition? Sound like the hysteria that has taken a hold of the GOP has set its sights on the Democratic party. Moderation meant that parties had common ground and allowed Washington to function normally.
12
I Heart--Too conservative for these times. Can't tell the difference between her and Republican Lite. Same goes for many other Dems.
10
Ask yourself what the moderate position on slavery would be, and that might clarify things some.
We have major structural ills in terms of law enforcement, incarceration, income inequality, wages, civil rights, the environment, banking, housing and healthcare that won't be resolved with little tweaks here and there. Just as when a home is filthy, a little sweeping won't clean anything. Sometimes one has to be bold and lift up the sofa cushions, pull back the furniture, and go for a deep-down scrub.
That's the basic analogy here. The Democrats have plodded along for over 30 years, maintaining the status quo and turning a blind eye to these major imbalances, unless forced to change by outside agitation (think same-sex marriage).
It's time we lift the curtain and take bold steps at real reform. We are overdue. It's not like folks haven't been asking for change for decades.
7
Ah, the old "don't rock the boat" message. The GOP has dragged this country so far to the right that we are beyond "nearing" fascism. "Moderation" in this case means we NEED to take several steps to the left before we even begin to approach normalcy. They've rewritten the tax code to favor billionaires and corporations, are flirting with nuclear war, and are dismantling the New Deal. Maybe you're happy with same-old, same-old, but I, as a 65-year-old woman, won't stand for it!
4
Makes no difference if she is the single most astute and alert 85 y/o in history. If reelected, she will be 91 when her term expires. Her time is up. Get out.
51
A bit frightening to witness a sharp swing to the radical left for the party.
This is not where the majority of middle America wishes its politics.
It does not favor either extreme.
18
"clarity"007--We are not radical, we are progressive, which is the new middle ground, thank you.
21
Time and elections will tell
1
What "radical left" are you talking about? There has not been a "left" in this country since the late 1960s- early 1970s. The Democratic Party has been moving right of "center" ever since 1980.
4
We have enough Republicans posing as Democrats in Congress. This is why Hillary was not elected.
46
Hillary's problem was that she was involved in too many scandals going back to Bill's early years as president.
1
Senator Feinstein, although a seasoned congressional veteran, is at age 84, due to move on. Many Democrats believe that younger people should step up and step in. Wise elders should think about offering their valuable expertise and then leave it at that.
33
It is time for her to retire. I got an add from her saying she works across the aisle. I don't want her to work across the aisle. I want her to push the Democratic agenda and run over Republicans.
55
I live in New Mexico too. And I don't give a hoot about that Feinstein woman, except to say that I am pleased that the republic's Democratic Party has finally seen the necessity of cutting ties with her.
Good riddance Dianne.
9
Not a Californian, nor a "spring chicken" so my opinion may not count for much but while I have always respected Seup t Feinstein and am not an activist and am middle of the road politically I believe that at 84 its time to retire. I believe we need more centrists in Congress and the country would be better for it but there comes a time when it’s time to go and this is that time. I would wish her well, she has represented California with distinction in my opinion and has been a credit to this country. I wish she were 50, if she were I’d give her another 4 terms but unfortunately age catches up to all of us.
9
Jacksonian "Democrat"--"Jacksonian" is NOT centrist, it's right-wing.
6
You would be correct if we were speaking of Andrew Jackson but my Jacksonian Democrat is the distinguished ex senator from Washington State Henry M "Scoop" Jackson. A centrist in the best sense of the word. Scoop was strong on social programs, strong on defense, and a friend of business. Notice, my location is Seattle. I honor him by using him of as a "handle" for my posts. Unfortunately there are few men or women of his stature now serving in the senate.
'Scoop' Jackson, Senator from Boeing.
1
Time for Ms. Feinstein to retire. Many people call for term-limits, but we have this already when you...vote! Let's not allow any politician to make a lifelong career of the House or Senate!
Thanks for your service, Sen. Feinstein, enjoy your retirement.
15
Ugh, if they don't wake up soon, the 2018 and 2020 federal elections really are there for the Democrats to lose. Just like the silly "a better deal" pitch in 2017 that was a complete flop and led by other old guard of the party, nothing screams change louder than ancient politicians who have been in place for far too long. Feinstein, Pelosi, Schumer and many others need to start cultivating young leaders and preparing to transfer power (and $$$) to make this happen. Please put your egos aside or we will have another repeat of the current nightmare we are forced to endure for the next 3 years.
21
The democratic party in California is on to something here with a Senator whose 84 years old and had six terms. I am not impressed with congress and it's business as usual attitude. Time for new blood and a can do attitude instead of "we are not the majority party so we ride in the back of the bus".
13
The day Feinstein failed to support impeachment was the day she lost my vote. I wrote and told her that if she wasn't up to the fight, then she should get out of the way.
She needs to get out if the way.
Inaction from the left and retirement on the right is allowing the nasty lying dictator to destroy millions of people and our future, all for his (and the billionaires collective) short term advantage.
Too many people in a position to do something are doing nothing.
14
I won't be voting there, but the day she nixed the idea of universal health care, was the day I stopped rooting for her. I will donate money to her progressive primary opponent, Alison Hartson.
10
The statement mentioning Diane Feinstein's "financial advantage" in reality, is anything but an advantage to those who want to see real concrete ideas and policies. Her continuing ties to corporate donors and inability and unwillingness to commit to any concrete progressive ideas such as universal healthcare and other issues make her essentially a non-candidate. Voters want new ideas, concrete policies and motivating candidates, NOT goodwill with current party leaders.
She may, unfortunately, just get elected again, however, candidates like her and her ties to corporate/establishment democrats will be the last nail in the coffin of the democratic party. A loss of over 1000 seats by the party in the last ten years at the state and federal level just further confirms it. They would rather collect money than win elections and Diane Feinstein is the "poster child" for that mentality.
25
Contra your (mis?)information and the Gothamist's, in the 1950s in the Bronx grocers were always called grocers. Perhaps in Puerto Rican East Harlem it was then different, and the term spread with Spanish- and Spanglish-speaking populations. Is your usage an attempt to impose this Spanglish nationally? It's one thing to show one's respect for a community. It's another to think it's cool to impose Spanglishization on others by replacing readily intelligible, shorter, and current English terms by your fiat as when you call "bodegas" grocery stores that the locals never would, in New York or elsewhere. "Bodega" should be confined in your writing to contexts where New York Spanglish local color is appropriate.
2
Leonard D Katz, I think it's more the "Seinfeldization" of American society, in which New York City is the point of all reference. At least, to a certain demographic.
That there's enough NYT readers in California to support a California Today newsletter doesn't seem to have made the point to the NYT that we're not some novelty or revenue source.
Kevin de Leon will spin his open borders position as being progressive and high minded. But in the end, he’s not thinking about what’s best from a policy perspective (which his job as a lawmaker); he’s merely pushing an agenda that’s in the best immediate personal interest of him and his family.
To support his efforts to make California a sanctuary state, de Leon said: “Half of my family would be eligible for deportation under the executive order, because they got a false social security card, they got a false identification, they got a false driver’s license prior to us passing AB 60, they got a false green card, and anyone who has family members who are undocumented knows that almost entirely everybody has secured some sort of false identification.”
4
One meaning of the word “bodega” in Spain is “winery.”
Whether or not she's too "moderate," the Senator has been a D.C. fixture for far too long. Time for someone else to get a shot and to ignite the place with a measure of passion.
88
Yes, she was born 1933 i.e. too old. A compulsory retirement age for politicians would be welcome, perhaps 65 or 70.
I have no doubt that she is fit and well and can get through her job but that is only part of the deal. Is she and others of her age capable of grasping that the way things have been done in the recent past may not be what is wanted now? The Democratic Party needs to rethink whom it represents because Trump showed how they had failed. I am sure the party is thinking along these lines but the oldies are not the ones to press forward.
I am a few days from being 80 - it takes one to know one.
8
My God, she's 85 y/o and had four six-year terms. Who does she think she is -- John Conyers, age 87?
Federal court judges have to leave full-time duty at age 70. The Feinstein/Conyers gang is just selfish and piggy, period.
3
Being around too long is not entirely problematic. Passion is great but there are elements of wisdom and insight that only come with age and experience. The expression, "You don't know what you've got 'til its gone." applies here.
4
I live in New Mexico, a legally bilingual state, It took me a while to figure out what New Yorkers meant by bodega. So they beat us, too, at Spanish with that word.
4