Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s death set off a frantic round of behind-the-scenes jockeying Friday morning as Gov. Gavin Newsom considers who he will appoint to temporarily fill her seat.

Behind a thin veneer of respect for the Feinstein family, a contest for power began instantly. Within minutes of the news breaking, one Newsom confidante was contacted by someone making a pitch for a potential appointment. The confidante, who was granted anonymity to discuss private conversations, declined to name the person who made the inquiry. …

Newsom has committed to selecting a Black woman but said he would choose a short-term caretaker rather than elevate one of the candidates running to replace Feinstein. That creates a complicated political calculation: Newsom must find a candidate who is both qualified for the job but would also be satisfied with a brief tenure and willing to give up any current elected position.

[That may be a *bit* unseemly, but it’s not as if Feinstein’s passing was a shock either. Besides, this is a critical appointment for Newsom and Chuck Schumer needs it to be made quickly. The last time Newsom made that pledge was at least several months back, too. I would not be surprised if he put it aside for a caretaker appointment — or if he decides that he wants the job, now and in the future. — Ed]