Senator Dianne Feinstein has long been far more conservative than California voters. She voted for the Bush invasion of Iraq and Bush tax cuts for the wealthy, as just two examples. Today, billionaire philanthropist Tom Steyer endorsed her progressive opponent, Kevin de Leon.
Billionaire Democratic mega-donor Tom Steyer endorsed state Senate Leader Kevin de León (D), the top progressive challenger running against longtime Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.).
Steyer’s endorsement comes less than two months before the June 5 primary and gives de León a boost in his uphill battle to unseat Feinstein, who has served in the Senate since 1992.
The environmental activist considered running for either Senate or governor in California, but ultimately ruled out running for office this cycle. He’s seen as a potential presidential contender in 2020.
“I think he’s the kind of young progressive that reflects California and would be a very strong advocate for our state nationally,” Steyer said in an interview with the Los Angeles Times, which first reported the endorsement.
The Hill
Steyer has been a major donor to Democrats, environmental groups and campaigns, and a campaign for impeaching the Orange Pig.
This should help de Leon make the runoff in November.