And Lee makes 3 – Rep. Barbara Lee jumps into race to replace Sen. Diane Feinstein

Today California Democratic Rep. Barbara Lee jumped into the increasingly crowded field to replace California Senator Diane Feinstein. Last week Feinstein announced she would not seek another term in 2024.

Lee joins two California Congressional Democratic colleagues to replace Feinstein, who holds the record for the longest-serving women senator. Feinstein was first elected to the seat for a two-year term in 1992 and has easily won reelection every six years since 1994.

The two other candidates, Adam Schiff and Katie Porter, represent Southern California congressional districts. Lee, who currently represents California’s 12th district, was first elected in a special election in 1998 and has easily won reelection every year since.

Starting behind her 3 declared opponents in a key area

Lee, who has served in Congress longer than Porter and Schiff and has gained a reputation for supporting a variety of progressive causes, also gained national recognition following the 911 attacks. Lee was the only Representative to vote against the Authorization for Use of Military Forces Against Terrorism, which gave President George W. Bush broad authority to wage the war on terror.

Lee was heavily criticized, but she maintained the act gave the president a blank check to wage war. After the problems encountered in Afghanistan and Iraq, Lee’s position was vindicated.

Lee has been in a safe district, and that may become a disadvantage as she has a relatively sparse campaign fund. According to the Washington Post, Lee has $52,000, while Schiff reports $21 million, and Porter has over $7 million.

With over a year until the 2024 California primary, more Democratic and Republican candidates undoubtedly will enter the race. While Lee will be able to raise cash, given the substantial financial advantages of her two Democratic colleagues, it could be tough going for the Oakland representative.