Senator Oprah? Newsom may tap talk show star if Feinstein retires early: report

California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom could appoint billionaire talk show host Oprah Winfrey to replace Sen. Dianne Feinstein should the infirmed lawmaker retire prior to the end of her term.

Newsom drew criticism for not appointing a Black woman to replace Kamala Harris when she assumed the vice presidency and has since vowed to do so should he receive another chance to appoint a senator.

The Associated Press indicated that Oprah's name has appeared in the list of potential picks.

Feinstein has indicated that she will retire in early 2025, when her current term expires, but her recent, wheelchair-bound return to the Senate has attracted considerable speculation as to the true state of her health and ability to serve the full term.

The race to replace Feinstein has attracted several competitors, including Democratic Reps. Adam Schiff, Katie Porter, and Barbara Lee.

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on Twitter.