Labonza Butler, who was appointed 18 days ago to fill the Senate seat left vacant by the death of Dianne Feinstein, said Thursday that she will not run for office next year, leading to a truly open race in California with three Democratic congressional parties. members and a former Major League Baseball star.
In an interview with The New York Times, Senator Butler said he wanted to be a “loud, proud champion of California” in the remaining 383 days of his term, but he felt “it’s not the greatest benefit.” My voice.”
Mrs. Butler was never elected to the position and was appointed three weeks ago by Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is Ms. She helped fulfill Feinstein’s promise to name a black woman to end her term.
Ms. Butler, 44, spent nearly two decades at the Service Employees International Union, where she headed the branch representing about 325,000 domestic care workers. His accomplishments include leading the fight for a $15 minimum wage in California. Before taking up the Senate appointment, M.S. Butler heads Emily’s List, a powerhouse that helps get Democratic women elected nationwide in support of abortion rights.
He also worked at a political consulting firm where he worked with Vice President Kamala Harris, Mr. Advised Newsom and ride-share company Uber. She was later in charge of political advocacy at Airbnb.
“I believe there needs to be real clarity about why leaders are in office and what they intend to do with the power they have,” he said Thursday, explaining that he felt he was not ready to run for full office next year. .
Even without Ms. Butler in the race, Californians will have plenty of candidates to choose from. Three top Democratic members of Congress — Representatives Katie Porter, Adam Schiff and Barbara Lee — campaigned for months when Senator Feinstein died in late September at age 90.
Former Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres first baseman Steve Garvey has also announced his candidacy as a Republican.
This is a growing story. Check back for updates.