The incident occurred during a roll call vote for the defense appropriations bill in the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee. Instead of saying "aye" to have her vote recorded, Feinstein began reading from her prepared remarks.
Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., tried to redirect Feinstein, telling her to simply say "aye." However, Feinstein continued with her remarks in support of the bill, not realizing that the roll call was still in progress. A staff member intervened and reminded Feinstein that the committee was still calling roll. Murray once again urged Feinstein to say "aye," and after a moment of confusion, Feinstein finally said, "Aye."
Feinstein, who is currently the oldest serving member of the Senate at 90 years old, has been representing California since 1992. In February, she announced that she would not be seeking re-election in 2024. Despite her decision to retire, Feinstein remains committed to her priorities, including addressing wildfires, drought, homelessness, and healthcare access.
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In March, Feinstein was hospitalized with shingles in San Francisco but expressed her intention to return to the Senate later that month. After an absence of nearly three months, she returned to work on May 11. Accompanied by her staff, Feinstein arrived at the Capitol in a wheelchair, with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., by her side. Her return restored the Democrats' slim majority in the Senate, with a 51-49 split.
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The incident involving Feinstein's confusion during the roll call vote comes on the heels of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, 81, appearing to freeze up during a news conference the day before. McConnell's momentary lapse raised concerns about the age and cognitive abilities of lawmakers.
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