Deep Blue California sent a strong signal to longtime Senator Dianne Feinstein that she just isn't Blue enough.
In a vote at the San Diego Convention Center on Saturday, the California Democratic Party voted not to endorse the 84-year-old Feinstein, instead giving many of their votes to State Senator Kevin De Leon, considered a more progressive Democrat.
De Leon got 54 percent of the vote, compared to 37 percent for Feinstein. Neither Democrat will receive the state party endorsement because they failed to reach the 60 percent threshold.
DeLeon quickly pounced issuing a statement, “The outcome of today’s endorsement vote is an astounding rejection of politics as usual, and it boosts our campaign’s momentum as we all stand shoulder-to-shoulder against a complacent status quo."
TRUMP PLAYING A FACTOR
It seems clear that any weakness shown towards the president means political suicide for any Democrat, particularly in arguably the most liberal state in the country.
Feinstein has taken heat for admitting no "collusion exists between President Trump and the Russians."
She also has been crushed by Democrats after voicing optimism about Trump becoming "a good president.”
Feinstein also recently said that former President Barack Obama’s DACA program was on shaky legal ground.
THE INDEPENDENT FACTOR
Feinstein will be difficult to beat however, considering her establishment support and standing among independents and women, two key voting blocs.
Ben Tulchin, a San Francisco pollster has recently stated, “It will be tough to outflank her in that capacity,"
If she wins, Feinstein would be 91 at the end of her six year term.