Laphonza Butler opts out of 2024 US Senate race in California

Laphonza Butler, who was appointed to fill Sen. Dianne Feinstein's seat in California, has announced that she will not run for a full Senate term in 2024. Despite her successful career in politics, Butler's lack of public office experience and low name recognition among California voters would have posed significant challenges in raising the necessary funds for a successful campaign. The 2024 Senate race in California already has a crowded field, with Democratic U.S. Reps. Barbara Lee, Katie Porter, and Adam B. Schiff leading in the polls and fundraising. Butler's decision leaves the race open for these candidates and former Dodgers star Steve Garvey, a Republican.