January 1, Reporter Exposes Alarming Conversation with Top Democratic Senator

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An Insider reporter recently revealed an alarming conversation he had with Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) this week, in which the 89-year-old lawmaker had completely forgotten comments she made not long ago.

Feinstein, the oldest-serving member of the U.S. Senate, recently became the longest-serving Democratic senator, putting her next in line to become president pro tempore of the Senate.

Accepting the position would make Feinstein third in line to the presidency, behind the vice president and House Speaker.

Late last month, Feinstein told The Washington Post that she had “no interest” in the position.

“I’ve never thought about being the president pro tempore, and I have no interest in it at this time,” Feinstein told the outlet in a statement.

Earlier this week, Insider asked Feinstein about her decision — but she had no recollection that she’d already decided against it, insisting that she hadn’t thought about it.

Insider reporter Bryan Metzger asked Feinstein about the potential of taking the president pro tempore position and possibly making history as the first woman to hold the job.

But the California Democrat had apparently forgotten about her previous statement.

“Well, I haven’t thought about it, but I’ll let you know when I do,” Feinstein said. “I just got back, I’ve had a lot of issues.”

The reporter noted that one of Feinstein’s aides “quickly interjected” to remind Feinstein that she previously said that she’s not interested in seeking the distinguished position.

“That’s what you’ve told reporters,” the aide reportedly told Feinstein.

“I don’t know what you’re saying,” the senator replied.

“This is about the Senate pro tem position,” the aide explained.

“Well, I haven’t said anything about it that I know of,” Feinstein insisted.

“You were asked about it over the break, and you put out a statement saying that you had no intention of running for it,” the aide said, referring to the statement Feinstein gave WaPo last month.

“Okay, well, then, I guess it’s out,” she said.

The alarming exchange highlighted existing concerns about Feinstein’s age and declining cognitive health.

Sources: Insider | The Washington Post