Sen. Feinstein briefly hospitalized after suffering ‘minor fall’

Sen. Dianne Feinstein was hospitalized Tuesday after suffering a “minor fall” in her San Francisco home and was later released that same day, the California Democrat’s spokesperson said Wednesday.

Ms. Feinstein, 90, was previously hospitalized earlier this year for several weeks after being diagnosed with shingles, an illness that created a monthslong absence from the Senate.

Her office revealed the latest health scare following a report from TMZ.

“Senator Feinstein briefly went to the hospital yesterday afternoon as a precaution after a minor fall in her home,” a Feinstein spokesperson said. “All of her scans were clear, and she returned home.”

Ms. Feinstein, who’s held her seat for 30 years, is not seeking reelection in 2024 but has faced growing calls from Democrats and voters to resign over questions about her cognitive and physical health.

Ms. Feinstein returned from her extended absence in June but has been in frail health, and is wheeled around the Capitol by staff. Last month, she appeared confused during a committee vote and had to be told by fellow Democratic Sen. Patty Murray of Washington how to vote.

Most California voters — 63% — said in a June Emerson College/Inside California Politics poll that they want Ms. Feinstein to resign before her term ends in January 2025.

Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer said he spoke with Ms. Feinstein by phone Wednesday morning.

“She said she suffered no injuries and briefly went to the hospital as a precaution,” the New York Democrat said in a statement. “I’m glad she is back home now and is doing well.”

While she’s the oldest member of the upper chamber, Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell has also faced recent calls to step down after the 81-year-old had a health scare of his own last month by suddenly freezing mid-sentence for more than 20 seconds while speaking to reporters. In March, the Kentucky Republican suffered a concussion and fractured rib in a fall at a Washington restaurant.