Dianne Feinstein and Republicans: This saga has a strange new twist.
SlateMAY 2023
It's not surprising that Feinstein is no longer able to perform her duties as a Senator due to her age. There is no reason Republicans should cooperate with Democrats on their judicial agenda. There is no precedent for such a temporary replacement, and to give way due to moral duty would be extraordinarily dangerous in potentially allowing the Biden administration's judicial agenda to proceed.
Republicans have made it clear that they will not let Feinstein be replaced, even for a short period of time, as McConnell continues with his intention to exploit the befuddling Senate rulebook and prohibit judicial nominations from passing. Whether Feinstein resigns or is replaced, Republicans will no doubt continue their obstructionist ways.
Republicans and Democrats are attempting to take the moral high ground on the matter of Feinstein's absence which just so happens to align with their political desires. The reality is that both sides claim the other is playing politics in what is a difficult and messy situation.