Follow Us

Feinstein returns to Capitol Hill after illness that resulted in her missing at least 91 floor votes

The California Democrat said she'll keep "lighter schedule" as she resumes her official duties.

Published: May 11, 2023 10:57am

Updated: May 11, 2023 10:57am

Democrat Sen. Dianne Feinstein returned to Capitol Hill on Wednesday to cast her first two votes since mid-February, the result of being diagnosed with shingles, a hospital stay and a long home recovery. 

The 89-year-old California lawmaker was upon her arrival on Capitol Hill was assisted into a wheelchair and greeted by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, according to NBC News.

Feinstein told reporters that she feels "much better" but didn't respond to questions about calls by fellow congressional Democrats to retire now instead of at the end of her term, which she has vowed to do.

She missed at least 91 floor votes as a result of her illness, according to an NBC News tally.

Feinstein said in a statement Wednesday afternoon she'll keep "lighter schedule" as she resumes her official duties.

“Even though I’ve made significant progress and was able to return to Washington, I’m still experiencing some side effects from the shingles virus," she said. "My doctors have advised me to work a lighter schedule as I return to the Senate. I’m hopeful those issues will subside as I continue to recover."

Just the News Spotlight