In a surprising turn of events, Senator Laphonza Butler, who was appointed by California Governor Gavin Newsom just 18 days ago to fill the seat left vacant by the late Senator Dianne Feinstein, has announced that she will not be seeking a full term in the 2024 elections.
In a statement released on Thursday, Butler, a Democrat from California, expressed her belief in the importance of elected leaders having a clear understanding of their purpose in office. "Ive always believed elected leaders should have real clarity about why theyre in office and what they want to do with the responsibility and power they have," she wrote.
She further explained that she had spent the past 16 days reflecting on her life, her service, and the voice she wanted to bring forward. "After considering those questions Ive decided not to run for a full term in the US Senate," she concluded.
Butler, 44, holds the distinction of being the first black lesbian to serve in Congress. Her decision not to pursue a full term has come in the wake of questions about her residency status in California. Public records and FEC filings indicate that Butler has been a resident of Silver Spring, Maryland, since 2021.
She relocated to the Washington, DC, region to assume the role of president of Emilys List, a political action committee committed to electing Democratic female candidates who support abortion rights. However, Butler maintained a residence in California from 2009 to 2021, and a spokesperson for Governor Newsom confirmed to The Post that she recently re-registered to vote in California.
In a tweet defending her decision, Butler wrote, "Knowing you can win a campaign doesnt always mean you should run a campaign." She acknowledged that her decision might surprise many, as it is uncommon for those in power to willingly relinquish it. "It may not be the decision people expected but its the right one for me," she added, pledging to "serve the people of California with every ounce of energy and effort that I have" until her term ends.
Following Feinstein's announcement in February that she would not seek re-election, three Democratic members of Californias congressional delegation Representatives Katie Porter, Adam Schiff, and Barbara Lee declared their candidacy for the Senate seat. Feinstein, who had served in the Senate since 1992, passed away last month at the age of 90.
Adding to the mix, former Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres first baseman Steve Garvey announced earlier this month that he would run for the seat as a Republican.
Under Californias primary system, the top two vote-getters, regardless of party affiliation, will face off in the November general election. The primary is scheduled for March 5.
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