Republican Lawmaker Questions Constitutionality of Laphonza Butler's Appointment to Senate Seat

California Governor Gavin Newsom has chosen Laphonza Butler, the president of EMILY's List, to fill the seat of the late Democratic Senator Dianne Feinstein. However, Butler's home address is listed in Silver Spring, Maryland, and Republican Representative Darrell Issa is questioning the constitutionality of her ability to take office while residing in a different state than the one she will represent134.

Issa's Letter

Issa is expected to send a letter to California Governor Gavin Newsom, Senator Alex Padilla, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell expressing concern over Newsom's recent appointment of Butler to replace the late Senator Feinstein15. Issa is questioning the legality of appointing a non-resident to the late Senator's seat2.

Butler's Residency

Butler moved to Maryland in 2021 around the time she was chosen to lead EMILY's List, according to public records3. She was registered to vote in Maryland in 2022, but Newsom's office said Monday, in response to questions about Butler's residency, that she has re-registered to vote in California3.

Implications

Issa's concerns about Butler's residency raise questions about the constitutionality of her appointment to the Senate seat. If Butler is not a resident of California, it is unclear whether she is eligible to represent the state in the Senate. This could lead to legal challenges and further political controversy1.

Conclusion

Republican Representative Darrell Issa is questioning the constitutionality of Laphonza Butler's ability to take office while residing in a different state than the one she will represent. Butler's residency raises questions about the legality of her appointment to the Senate seat. This could lead to legal challenges and further political controversy.