Since Feinstein passed away more than 148 days ahead of the next scheduled primary, California will conduct a special election primary and call a special election to fill a portion of Feinstein’s term, ending in 2025.
California employs a “jungle primary” system, where the top two candidates, regardless of party affiliation, compete in the general election.
Three prominent Democrats had already entered the race to secure a full term: Barbara Lee, along with her House Democratic colleagues Reps. Adam Schiff and Katie Porter. Schiff had been leading the field before Feinstein’s death.
A former chair of the House Intelligence Committee, Schiff gained national prominence during the first impeachment of President Trump while serving as one of the House managers. He was instrumental in pushing the now-proven false narrative that Trump was working with the Russians to win his election.
His campaign boasts an impressive $29.8 million in funding. Porter, mentored by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, gained attention during the Trump administration for her rigorous questioning of top officials, often using a whiteboard to make her point.