Feinstein Wants Kavanaugh Hearing Delayed As Reports Suggest There May Be More Accusers

Senator Dianne Feinstein has asked the Senate Judiciary Committee to delay its hearings on Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. Feinstein wrote to committee chairman Chuck Grassley asking for a delay so that the FBI can investigate allegations of sexual misconduct against Kavanaugh.

“I am writing to request an immediate postponement of any further proceedings related to the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh,” Feinstein wrote. “We need a fair, independent process that will gather all the facts, interview all the relevant witnesses, and ensure the Committee receives a full and impartial report.”

The Judiciary Committee was due to hear from one of Kavanaugh’s accusers, Christine Blasey Ford, on Thursday. But since Ford’s testimony was scheduled, a second woman has come forward with fresh allegations against Kavanaugh. Deborah Ramirez claims Kavanaugh thrust his genitals at her face during a party at Yale

Michael Avenatti, lawyer for former porn star Stormy Daniels, has claimed that he is in contact with another woman who has allegations to make against Kavanaugh. Avenatti had previously suggested that there were other women wiling to come forward. He claims his new client has information Kavanaugh and his friend Mike Judge, who was reportedly at the party where Ford was assaulted.

“I represent a woman with credible information regarding Judge Kavanaugh and Mark Judge. We will be demanding the opportunity to present testimony to the committee and will likewise be demanding that Judge and others be subpoenaed to testify. The nomination must be withdrawn,” Avenatti said.

The Democrats have not yet called for Kavanaugh’s nomination to be withdrawn but if more allegations emerge, it is difficult to see how they can avoid it. So far, Republicans have been lock step behind Kavanaugh. However, allegations from more than one woman may make things difficult for Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, Republicans who are already under pressure to defy their party and reject Trump’s nominee.