The first round of confirmation hearings for Amy Coney Barrett have shone a spotlight on Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.). For many liberals, the hearings have been an introduction, or refresher course, on the longtime senator from California who is the ranking Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee.
They don’t like what they’re seeing.
Barrett was nominated by President Donald Trump to replace the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Hearings for her confirmation have taken place over the last week.
Feinstein’s centrism is nothing new. Last year, a viral video showed Feinstein arguing with a group of kids who supported the Green New Deal. In a 2015 battle over re-authorizing the Patriot Act, she introduced legislation denying surveillance reforms demanded by privacy advocates.
But for those following the Barrett hearings, it’s come as a surprise to see Feinstein compliment—and even hug—Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.).
The general feeling among liberals online is that she’s ineffectively performed her role on the committee that’s the first gatekeeper to the nomination of Barrett, whom many liberals believe will be intent on overturning longstanding precedent such as reproductive freedom while on the Supreme Court.
The left is taking to social media in droves to express their displeasure with Feinstein, and her critics include many high-profile thought leaders.
“Diane Feinstein praising Barrett, and then inexplicably praising Graham, is a clear sign that she should not remain as the top Democrat on the Judiciary Committee,” tweeted Norman Ornstein of the Atlantic.
Brian Fallon, who was press secretary for Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign, tweeted: “Imagine being @harrisonjaime, working your ass off in deeply red South Carolina, and Dianne Feinstein is out here applauding Lindsey Graham and saying what a great job he’s doing.”
Jaime Harrison is the Democrat running against Graham for a U.S. Senate seat.
Although some may argue it’s petty to slam Feinstein for hugging and praising Graham, Senate Republicans wasted no time capitalizing on it.
In addition to more serious criticisms and ageism, a few plucky souls brought memes to the Feinstein slamfest.
None seem swayed by the fact that Feinstein released a statement saying that she will vote against Barrett’s confirmation.