Dianne Feinstein's refusal to step down with grace

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【Summary】Calls for Senator Dianne Feinstein to step down are increasing after her hospitalization following a fall. Some argue that questioning her ability to continue serving at 90 is ageist and sexist, but the author believes it is respectful to suggest someone else take over when they are no longer fully capable. They cite their grandfather, who retired as a judge at 70, as an example of stepping down with dignity.

FutureCar Staff Aug 14, 2023 7:03 AM PT

Dianne Feinstein's refusal to step down with grace

As the anniversary of my grandfather's death approaches, I find myself reflecting on his life for two reasons. Firstly, his yahrzeit is this Thursday, marking 13 years since his passing at the age of 86. Secondly, the recent hospitalization of Senator Dianne Feinstein, the oldest member of the Senate, has sparked discussions about her potential cognitive decline. At 90 years old, there are growing calls for Feinstein to step down, with some of her colleagues dismissing these calls as sexist and ageist.

Personally, I find it insulting to feminism to suggest that questioning the ability of a 90-year-old who has missed significant work due to health reasons to retire is inherently sexist. However, that is a topic beyond the scope of this piece.

Comparing my grandfather's experience as a public servant to Feinstein's, I am reminded of the path of dignity my grandfather took. For 32 years, he served as Hingham District Court's first justice. When he turned 70 in 1994, he was obligated to retire, as Massachusetts judges must do at that age. Despite his love for being a judge, he accepted this retirement with a sense of sadness and unfairness, as federal court judges were not subject to the same age-related retirement requirements.

Leviticus states, "You shall rise before the aged and show deference to the old." Regardless of religious beliefs, we should respect those who have accumulated wisdom and experience over time. However, it is also important to recognize that there comes a point when it becomes challenging for individuals to effectively express their wisdom and translate their experience into public service. My grandfather retired from being a judge while he still had the capacity to give his all and serve in a manner he deemed appropriate.

While I cannot determine the ideal retirement age, I do believe that my grandfather's retirement was marked by respect and dignity. He chose to step away from something he took great pride in while still being able to take pride in his ability to do it. I do not intend to equate the role of a Hingham Court District Judge to that of a U.S. Senator, but I do believe that sometimes the most respectful action we can take is to acknowledge that someone else should have a chance to serve.

Respecting our elders and appreciating their service does not contradict the belief that others should have an opportunity to serve as well. Wanting someone to conclude their service while they are still fully capable of doing so is a desire for them to exit with dignity and at their peak capacity. It is not disrespectful to prioritize the completion of their public service over their age or faculties.

I need not speculate on my grandfather's stance on this matter. Before his retirement, he declared, "I've been here long enough. Once you start reminiscing about how the old days were better, you know it is time to leave." His words serve as a reminder that recognizing when it is time to step aside is an act of wisdom and self-awareness.