"Newsom's Decision: Balancing Pressures in Choosing Feinstein's Successor"

California Governor Gavin Newsom is facing a difficult decision as he considers who to appoint as the successor to the late Senator Dianne Feinstein. Newsom had promised to appoint a Black woman to the seat, but his statement that it would be an "interim appointment" has angered some liberal voters and activists who believe Rep. Barbara Lee should be considered. Newsom's potential candidates include Karen Bass, London Breed, and Shirley Weber, but he has not yet made a decision. The timing of the appointment is at the governor's discretion, and a swift decision could help avoid intense lobbying efforts. Newsom's choice will have far-reaching implications for his state and his own political future.