By Sharon Bernstein
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Reuters) – Newly appointed California Senator , a Democrat, said on Thursday she will not seek a new U.S. Senate term next year.
Butler, a former labor organizer and political fundraiser who was tapped earlier this month to replace the late Sen. on Oct. 1, said instead she would focus on the time left in her appointed position, just over a year.
Her decision relieves a potential political problem for California Governor , a Democrat, who had said he would not take sides in a crowded field of candidates seeking the seat.
“Knowing you can win a campaign doesn’t always mean you should run a campaign,” Butler said on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. “I know this will be a surprise to many because traditionally we don’t see those who have power let it go.”
Among Democrats seeking to replace Feinstein in heavily Democratic California are Congressional representatives Adam Schiff, Katie Porter and Barbara Lee. Former baseball star Steve Garvey is running as a Republican.
Butler was welcomed by many as first openly lesbian Black U.S. Senator, but her appointment also drew criticism because she had never held elective office and was not living in the state.
(Reporting by Sharon Bernstein; additional reporting by Kanishka Singh and Paul Grant; Editing by Rod Nickel)
Amanda Smith is a dedicated U.S. correspondent with a passion for uncovering the stories that shape the nation. With a background in political science, she provides in-depth analysis and insightful commentary on domestic affairs, ensuring readers are well-informed about the latest developments across the United States.
