During a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing on Thursday, Senator Dianne Feinstein of California encountered a confusing moment while casting her vote on the Defense Appropriations bill.
Initially failing to respond when called to vote, Feinstein began reading from her prepared remarks. Senators Patty Murray and one of Feinstein’s aides guided her back on track, with Murray repeating, “just say aye.”
A spokesperson for Feinstein attributed her confusion to the hearing’s chaotic nature, as the committee strove to finalize all appropriations bills before the recess. Describing the quick shifts between statements, votes, and debates, the spokesperson said Feinstein was preoccupied and didn’t realize a vote was called. Feinstein, who at 90 is the oldest currently serving Senator and has faced calls to resign over health concerns, confirmed she will not run for reelection in 2024.
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