California Gov. Gavin Newsom's appointment of Laphonza Butler to fill the U.S. Senate seat previously held by the late Dianne Feinstein has evoked praise from progressives across California — along with mounting speculation over whether Butler will run for a full Senate term next year.
Butler, a Democratic adviser and labor leader, is expected to be sworn in as a U.S. senator Tuesday by Vice President Kamala Harris at the U.S. Capitol.
Most recently, Butler has led Emily's List, a national organization dedicated to electing more women to political office who support abortion rights. Her background includes deep experience as a leader of one of California's most powerful and largest unions and as a former campaign advisor to Harris. Her pursuit of a full Senate term could scramble an already crowded field vying for the Senate seat.